MIGRATION COMPONENT IN THE EMPLOYMENT STRATEGY OF UKRAINE IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

Background. An analysis of the current situation on the Ukrainian labour market in the context of the war, demographic and migration crises is necessary to understand the main challenges faced by the country and to formulate an effective political and economic strategy. Identifying the factors that affect unemployment, labour mobility and the structure of economic activity allows us to assess the prospects for stability and development of the labour market in the context of global changes. In this context, the development of an employment strategy is becoming a key tool for ensuring social and economic stability, in particular through Ukraine’s integration into the European Union. European integration will help to increase the competitiveness of the national labour market and attract qualified personnel from other countries, allowing Ukraine to adapt its economy to European standards and realise its potential on a global scale. Methods. The following methods were used in the preparation of the study: systematic approach, comparative method, structural and functional method, as well as methods of analysis and assessment of the socio-economic situation. Particular attention was paid to analysing the impact of the war on the labour market, as well as to the study of demographic and migration processes using statistical analysis. Results. It was found that the full-scale invasion has deepened the existing structural imbalances in the Ukrainian labour market. In addition, the demographic and migration crises have significantly complicated the situation, in particular due to high migration of the working-age population and an increase in the number of internally displaced persons. The shortage of skilled workers has become one of the main problems worsening the situation on the labour market. To overcome these challenges, it is necessary to develop a comprehensive employment strategy that focuses on integration into the European Union. Conclusions. Given the complex challenges facing Ukraine’s labor market due to the full-scale invasion, demographic and migration crises, the development of an employment strategy is a critical step towards ensuring economic recovery and stable national development. Ukraine’s integration into the European Union will not only enhance the competitiveness of the national labor market but also ensure the effective use of skilled labor, supporting economic growth, social stability, and improving the quality of life for citizens.