Khudyy A.P., graduate student of the Department of Regional and Local Development of the Institute of Administration, State Management and Professional Development of the Lviv Polytechnic National University, Lviv, Ukraine

ORCID ID: 0009-0002-6277-918X
e-mail: andrewkhudyy@gmail.com

Demographic Processes in Ukraine: Analysis, Trends, and Challenges

Abstract. Introduction. The demographic situation in Ukraine has undergone significant changes in recent decades, with profound implications for economic development, the labor market, and social policy. The main challenges include a sharp decline in population, falling birth rates, mass migration, and an aging society. These trends have intensified, especially after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, which resulted in significant demographic losses due to forced emigration, increased mortality, and infrastructure destruction. The government must implement effective mechanisms to overcome the demographic crisis, including stimulating birth rates, facilitating the return of migrants, and strengthening the health care system.

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to analyze current demographic processes in Ukraine, assess their impact on socio-economic development, and identify effective state policy mechanisms. Special attention is given to the demographic consequences of the war, migration factors, and the possibilities of government regulation of these processes.

Results. The article analyzes key demographic indicators that show a decline in population due to the war, declining birth rates, increasing mortality rates, and active migration. It was found that the greatest demographic losses are among the working-age population, leading to labor shortages and additional pressure on the pension system. Possible ways to overcome the demographic crisis are assessed, including social policy reforms, the creation of incentives for birth rates, support for young families, and the attraction of foreign specialists.

Conclusions. Demographic processes in Ukraine have a critical impact on the country’s future and require a comprehensive state approach to their regulation. Given the current challenges, it is necessary to actively stimulate the birth rate, create conditions for the return of Ukrainians from abroad, and develop the health care system. Further research should focus on analyzing the long-term impact of the war on the demographic structure of the population, assessing the effectiveness of state programs, and adapting international experience to stabilize the demographic situation in Ukraine. The obtained results can be used for the development of state strategies in the field of social and economic development.

Keywords: demographic processes; birth rate; migration; population aging; labor market; public policy; socio-economic development.

References:

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