THE MIGRATION OF THE POPULATION OF UKRAINE DUE TO A FOREIGN INVASION

Abstract

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 led to the mass displacement of the Ukrainian population. It is estimated that more than 14 million people were forced to leave their homes, including nearly 8 million people, primarily women and children, who went abroad. The analysis of the dynamics, directions, and composition of forced migration flows from Ukraine abroad is the focus of this article. Based on the available statistical and sociological data, the author identifies the patterns of the current migration process and its principal characteristics. Traditional migration channels, in particular the inclusion of Ukraine in the European migration system as one of the elements of the country’s European integration, are taken into account when examining the decision-making process, the choice of destination, and the plans of displaced persons for the future. The current situation does not enable predictions regarding whether displaced persons will remain in their destinations, return home, or migrate further within the country or abroad. Despite this lack of clarity, it can be assumed that the number of international migrants from Ukraine will increase for security and economic reasons. The intensification of migration will occur due to the non-repatriation of portions of refugee populations and the growth of temporary labor migration abroad, which may become a vital strategy among Ukrainians to overcome the consequences of war, accumulate funds to rebuild destroyed housing, and compensate for lost property. As migrants from Ukraine are typically working age, active, and educated people, the outflow of them can significantly complicate and decelerate the post-war reconstruction of the country. Therefore, creating conditions for the return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) should be the central task of the state as well as the crucial subject of cooperation between Ukraine and the host countries.