Demography Institute Director Debunks False Claims About Migrant Payouts

Setting the Record Straight on Migrant Worker Wages

According to Главком: Ella Libanova, who leads the Institute of Demography and Social Studies at Ukraine's National Academy of Sciences, has dismissed viral social media rumors claiming that labor migrants will receive 35,000 UAH in payments while Ukrainians are offered only 12,000–13,000 UAH. She argues that such assertions are both illogical and false. Libanova emphasized that no employer would willingly pay migrants a higher salary when they could hire Ukrainians for less.

'All this talk about migrants getting 35,000 UAH and our people getting 12,000 UAH... Well, excuse me: what employer would pay 35,000 UAH if they can hire someone for 13,000 UAH? Are they their own enemy?' – Ella Libanova stated.

She further noted that labor migrants will only fill positions that Ukrainians are not interested in, which only reinforces the absurdity of the circulating claims.

Russia's Disinformation Campaigns

Libanova also highlighted that Russia is running information campaigns aimed at destabilizing Ukraine. She pointed out that Russian propaganda has spread fake stories about a massive influx of migrants from India, Pakistan, and other countries into Ukraine. Social media and Telegram channels are actively sharing photos, videos, and AI-generated images that purportedly show Ukrainians being replaced by foreigners.

'Russia will not be able to overcome the united Ukrainian nation,' – concluded Ella Libanova, Director of the Institute of Demography and Social Studies.

These words reflect confidence in Ukrainian society's resilience amid the challenges of information warfare.

Libanova provided these comments in an interview with TSN, where she also discussed her consultations with experts in countering disinformation, migration policy, and demography-adding weight to her statements.

Her rebuttal regarding migrant worker wages represents a significant contribution to fighting disinformation that is spreading across Ukraine's information space. During wartime and economic uncertainty, clarifying the facts about labor migration can help maintain social stability and prevent public panic.

Additionally, the focus on Russian information manipulation underscores the need for Ukrainian society to unite in countering fake news and preserving national identity. These factors are especially relevant given ongoing developments in Ukraine and its struggle for stability and independence.

In light of the ongoing discussions about labor migration, it's essential to recognize the broader context of these claims. Recent statements from the head of the migration service have also addressed similar accusations, labeling them as part of a Russian disinformation strategy. For a deeper understanding of how these narratives are constructed and their implications for Ukrainian society, read more about the disinformation surrounding migrant influx.