THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION ON THE LABOUR RESOURCE SHORTAGE IN UKRAINE’S ECONOMY

Abstract

This article examines the impact of labour migration on the shortage of labour resources in Ukraine's economy amid prolonged war and economic instability. The topic's relevance is determined by the unprecedented scale of migration processes, which have acquired a systemic nature and become a defining factor in the transformation of the national labour market since 2022. The significant outflow of the working-age population, particularly those in strategic professions, poses a major challenge to post-war recovery processes, business competitiveness and social stability. This study aims to identify how migration processes affect labour shortages in Ukraine, analyse their socio-economic consequences, and develop proposals to minimise negative effects. The methodological framework is based on general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison and generalisation, as well as specialised methods such as the structural-functional approach, statistical analysis and systemic and comparative approaches. Data sources include materials from the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, the National Bank of Ukraine, the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, and international organisations such as the IOM, Eurostat and the World Bank, as well as sociological surveys and analytical centre reports. The study found that labour migration significantly reduces the human resources available in the industry, construction, healthcare, education and high-tech sectors. Notably, the shortage of skilled workers in construction exceeds 30%, while there is a significant exodus of young doctors and nurses from the healthcare sector. Additionally, an increasing number of researchers are leaving the education sector. Despite opportunities for remote employment, a high level of migration intentions persists in the IT sector, which exacerbates the risk to Ukraine’s innovative potential. The research shows that, while migrants’ remittances help to maintain the balance of payments, they do not offset the losses resulting from the depletion of the country’s human capital. The article's practical value lies in formulating a set of policy recommendations aimed at minimising the negative impact of migration on the labour market. Key recommendations include developing a National Labour Reintegration Strategy, creating programmes to support returning citizens, promoting dual education and retraining systems, and stimulating the reverse migration of highly qualified professionals. Implementing these measures will help to overcome labour shortages, preserve human capital and ensure Ukraine's sustainable socio-economic development during the post-war recovery period.