TRANSFORMATION OF THE IT SECTOR'S PERSONNEL STRUCTURE IN UKRAINE UNDER MARTIAL LAW: REGIONAL ASPECT

The article investigates the transformation of Ukraine's IT sector personnel structure under martial law, focusing on regional differentiation patterns. The research employs statistical analysis, comparative methods, and regional clustering to examine data from 2020–2024, encompassing both pre-war and wartime periods. Using YouControl analytical platform records of business entities under NACE codes 62 and 63, the study divides Ukraine's regions into four clusters: “Capital” (Kyiv), “Western,” “Central,” and “Frontline” regions based on their proximity to combat zones. Statistical analysis reveals significant contrasts between periods: frontline regions' business growth decreased from 21.89% (2020–2021) to 5.84% (2023–2024), while western regions maintained relatively high indicators at 8.77%. This asymmetry reflects substantial internal migration of specialists from eastern and southern Ukraine westward, creating a new geographic distribution of intellectual capital. Individual entrepreneurs demonstrated higher adaptability than corporate entities (8.71% versus 5.34% growth in 2023–2024), highlighting the advantage of flexible employment during instability. Notably, Lviv region's limited liability companies achieved 11.96% growth, approaching pre-war indicators and suggesting its emergence as a new IT center. Despite challenging circumstances, nationwide IT sector growth of 8.49% in 2023–2024 confirms the industry's resilience through remote work, professional mobility, and export preservation. These transformations produce varied socioeconomic consequences: frontline areas experience reduced tax revenue and consumer demand, while western regions face integration challenges but gain economic stimuli. The study proposes differentiated policies: safe infrastructure and startup incentives for the capital; relocation programs and educational hubs for western regions; and support mechanisms for frontline territories. For individual entrepreneurs, improved remote work regulations and collaborative platforms are recommended, while corporate entities need relocation support and distributed team management systems. This research enhances understanding of IT sector resilience during conflicts and offers practical recommendations for maintaining regional personnel potential.