Challenges and Threats to Ukraine's Demographic Stability During the War

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze the challenges and threats to the demographic stability of Ukraine that arose as a result of the war. The article highlights the problem of demographic stability as a strategic direction for the restoration of Ukraine's human capital in the conditions of war and post-war recovery. The transformation of the demographic situation is analyzed, which is accompanied by a decrease in the population, population aging, a decrease in the birth rate, and large-scale external and internal migration. The author emphasizes that demographic stability is not limited to statistical indicators, but involves a proactive policy based on preparation, planning, flexibility and transformability of institutions. An important component of such a policy is the revision of established social roles and behavioral models, in particular in terms of empowering women, youth, the elderly, people with disabilities and other social groups that were previously insufficiently integrated into economic and social life. It is emphasized that the problems of population decline and aging are not fatal, but can be overcome through the implementation of comprehensive socio-economic strategies focused on supporting families, stimulating fertility, inclusive labor market, and developing human potential. The article argues that only by combining demographic policy with employment, education, healthcare, and regional development policies can long-term stabilization of the demographic situation and preservation and increase of human capital as the basis for sustainable development of Ukraine be achieved.