IDENTIFICATION OF THE SOCIAL NATURE OF PROJECTS AND FACTORS OF THEIRRESILIENCE IN AN UNSTABLE ENVIRONMENT

The article investigates the problem of identifying the social nature of projects and determining the key factors contributing to their resilience in unstable environments. The study responds to the growing need for more precise classification of initiatives as “social,” amid the increasing hybridity between social and economic objectives in project management. Recognizing that the mere declaration of social goals is insufficient, the research emphasizes the importance of measurable and lasting social outcomes to justify a project's classification as socially oriented. A comparative analysis of Ukrainian and international approaches highlights fundamental differences in how social impact is assessed and justified. Ukrainian practice tends to focus on normative and policy-based criteria— primarily targeting vulnerable populations and aligning with national priorities—while international models promote a more dynamic, transparent, and performance-driven evaluation based on methodologies such as Social Return on Investment (SROI), Social Bond Principles, and Social Impact Measurement & Management (SIMM). To bridge the gap between theory and practice, the authors propose a structured framework for identifying the sufficiency of social effect in projects. This framework includes eight core criteria such as the presence of a clearly defined social mission, inclusion of marginalized groups, long-term impact, potential for institutional integration, scalability, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Each criterion is explained through specific indicators that can guide project managers, stakeholders, and evaluators in assessing the project's relevance and societal value. The article also delves into the concept of project resilience, understood as the capacity of a social initiative to adapt, survive, and remain impactful in conditions of uncertainty and limited resources. Drawing from global literature and best practices, the research identifies critical resilience factors including strategic vision, financial stability, stakeholder engagement, institutional recognition, and innovation. The study further introduces a multidimensional resilience model encompassing social, economic, political, ecological, and managerial dimensions. Ultimately, the article provides both a conceptual foundation and practical tools for enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of social projects. It contributes to the field by promoting a balanced approach that integrates rigorous impact assessment with adaptive and value-driven management. The proposed evaluation system can be applied for project planning, monitoring, funding justification, and inclusion into strategic programs, helping ensure that social initiatives produce meaningful, measurable, and lasting outcomes.