How does migration affect the Ukrainian economy?

Since achieving its independence, Ukraine has experienced several waves of migration caused by economic and geopolitical factors. The largest of them is the most recent, triggered by Russia’s full-scale invasion. According to the NBU, over 6.3 million displaced people from Ukraine have moved abroad.

At the same time, it is noted that migration restrained the growth of unemployment and reduction in the population’s income. However, migration has increased structural and regional disparities between employers’ needs and job seekers’ opportunities as migrants gradually adapt in their host countries.

Polls show that most migrants plan to return to Ukraine. If migrants choose not to return it could create a significant labor shortage that would limit GDP growth even after the war, especially coupled with low birth rates.

The Ministry of Social Policy emphasized that citizens returning from abroad requires a comprehensive solution, including the availability of jobs and housing for returning people.