Without labor migrants, there will be no reconstruction of Ukraine: expert

The problem of labor shortages in Ukraine is already hindering economic growth and complicating post-war reconstruction plans. Demographic trends, war, and large-scale labor migration have created a situation where there are no simple solutions left. According to experts' estimates, a significant portion of Ukrainians who left for abroad may not return, and after the war, a new wave of migration is expected. This is reported by the Ukrainian Association of International Employment Companies.

According to Vasyl Voskoboynyk, head of the NGO Migration Policy Office and president of the Ukrainian Association of International Employment Companies, even with funding and plans, reconstruction hinges on a basic question - who will physically work.

«We may have the desire to rebuild Ukraine, we may have plans and funds, but if there are no people at the machines, all these plans will turn into pictures on sand,» emphasizes the expert.

Labor migrants for the reconstruction of Ukraine: numbers without optimism

Demographers predict that about 70% of Ukrainians who went abroad may not return. In addition, after the war, another 1.5–2 million people may leave in search of work. In this situation, the need for labor becomes critical.

Estimates from various institutions show the scale of the problem:

• Ministry of Economy of Ukraine - 4.5–4.6 million additional workers
• International Labour Organization - 8.4–8.6 million people.

Labor force shortage in Ukraine: what options remain

The idea of attracting foreign workers often evokes an emotional response; however, according to experts, it is becoming inevitable. At the same time, Ukraine is losing competition for personnel to Poland, the Czech Republic, or Germany due to lower wages and complicated administrative procedures. Notably, in 2024–2025, the number of permits for foreigners is measured in only thousands.

Experts emphasize that relying on cheap labor is a mistake. The alternative should be:

• automation and robotization of production
• development of high-tech jobs
• transition away from the low-wage labor model.

A key factor remains government policy. Without clear rules, support for small businesses, and a human-oriented approach, Ukraine risks losing competitiveness in the fight for talent.

Earlier, we reported on which categories of Ukrainians return most often from abroad.