DIRECTIONS OF THE TERRITORIAL ORGANIZATION OF THE RURAL POPULATION OF THE ODESA REGION IN WARTIME: PRACTICAL ANALYSIS

The study examines the territorial organization of the rural population of the Odesa region in wartime conditions. The research identifies demographic, economic, and social challenges, their impact on the agricultural sector, employment, and spatial planning. The study evaluates community adaptation mechanisms, changes in logistics routes, and perspectives for rural area recovery. Measures are proposed to stabilize the region and ensure sustainable development in the post-war period. The ongoing war has significantly transformed the spatial organization of rural communities in Ukraine, particularly in the Odesa region. This traditionally agricultural region has undergone substantial demographic and economic changes, affecting employment levels, migration processes, land use, and access to social infrastructure. Given these shifts, studying the territorial organization of rural settlements in wartime is highly relevant, as it enables the formulation of effective adaptation mechanisms for communities facing modern challenges. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive approach to analyzing the structural changes in the rural population, their impact on agricultural production, transport logistics, and regional economic stability. For the first time, the study examines the territorial organization of Odesa's rural communities in the context of war, identifying key risks and development prospects for the region's post-war recovery. First, the research findings can be used to develop support for rural communities, aimed at stimulating economic activity and job creation. Second, analytical conclusions on spatial organization changes are crucial for revising land management strategies and agricultural sector development. Third, the study improves the understanding of migration processes and their impact on the social infrastructure of rural areas, which is essential for shaping state policies to support the rural population during wartime. As Odesa is one of Ukraine’s key agricultural and logistical centers, this research is of strategic importance for ensuring the country's food security and strengthening regional economic resilience. The study’s conclusions and recommendations can be beneficial to government bodies, local communities, and investors interested in rural development during and after the war. The research highlights that the agricultural sector remains the leading employment factor in rural Odesa but faces significant challenges due to demographic shifts, declining farm numbers, and war-induced disruptions in logistics and exports. Crop farming, especially grain and sunflower cultivation, dominates the sector, but constraints on long-term land leasing and the absence of incentives for deep processing industries pose risks of stagnation. The war has exacerbated negative demographic trends, leading to a population outflow from border and remote areas, creating new challenges for agricultural production and infrastructure organization. With disrupted exports, alternative transport corridors via the Danube ports are being developed, but substantial infrastructure investments are required. Policy measures should focus on strengthening local farming enterprises, encouraging cooperative movements, and expanding processing facilities to add value to agricultural products. Digital management systems for land use and rural infrastructure monitoring will enhance investment coordination and improve response capabilities. Additionally, civil protection strategies, improved shelter networks, and early warning systems should be integrated into spatial planning to ensure population safety. Keywords. Territorial organization, rural population, spatial planning, agricultural sector, changes, migration processes, military challenges, economic adaptation, Odesa region.