Social youth policy of Ukraine under martial law: realities and challenges

This article explores the transformation of youth social policy in Ukraine during the ongoing full-scale war that began in 2022. It identifies key challenges faced by young people, including forced migration, disrupted access to education, limited employment opportunities, reduced security and well-being, and increased psychological vulnerability. The analysis highlights the evolving values and growing civic engagement of youth, particularly through volunteering, national resistance, digital innovation, and leadership in civil society. The article examines current directions of youth policy implementation, focusing on the role of national agencies, youth centers, digital platforms, community initiatives, and international cooperation. Legal frameworks and institutional capacities of youth infrastructure are assessed, as well as the effectiveness of partnerships with NGOs and donor organizations. Special attention is paid to the problem of youth emigration and the development of policies to support their return and reintegration. The importance of youth participation in democratic renewal and post-war recovery is emphasized. The study argues for the necessity of intersectoral cooperation, psychosocial support mechanisms, and the institutionalization of youth involvement in policymaking. Strategic directions for improving youth policy in Ukraine are proposed, positioning it as a tool for national resilience and social cohesion in the context of war and reconstruction.