According to the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE), the war in Ukraine has resulted in a loss of about 40% of the working-age population. More than 1.7 million Ukrainians who were previously employed in the country are now abroad, which makes up more than 10% of the pre-war economically active population.
Population aging in Ukraine is rapidly increasing, and the demographic crisis is becoming ever more pressing. The share of individuals aged 65 and older has increased from 12% in 1991 to 22% in 2024. Despite the government adopting a demographic strategy until 2040, forecasts remain grim, predicting a population decline to 25.2 million people by 2051.
Demographic changes significantly affect the labor market in Ukraine. Data shows that 74% of employers are facing a shortage of personnel, with a staff deficit in companies of about 15% from their workforce. Currently, Ukraine needs an additional 4-5 million people to restore its economy.
According to experts, Ukraine is facing a serious demographic crisis that affects the labor market and threatens the country's economic growth. The decrease in the working-age population due to the war and aging is causing a labor shortage and hindering economic recovery.