INTERNAL DISPLACEMENT OF THE POPULATION DURING TIMES OF WAR: SOCIAL NEEDS, ADAPTATION, AND PROSPECTS OF MIGRANT INTEGRATION (CASE OF ODESA)

Abstract

The military aggression of Russia has resulted in massive forced outmigration and has also influenced the regional population redistribution in Ukraine. Key motivations driving the population to relocate include the search for security, opportunities for self-employment, self-realization, and jobs as well as the satisfaction of basic needs in the social infrastructure. Social and economic stability stands out as one of the primary needs for the displaced persons. By moving to safer regions within Ukraine, the people have the opportunity to obtain the status of internally displaced person (IDP) and to rely on social assistance from the state. A sociological study conducted within the city of Odessa revealed that a crucial motivational factor in determining the internal displacement location is the proximity factor (geographical closeness of regions) and family/friendship ties. Despite a high level of education among the displaced persons, a significant part experiences unemployment (50% of respondents). 20% of respondents indicated that they were able to retain their previous jobs and work remotely. The main material needs for IDPs include the ability to rent housing and meet their daily needs, emphasizing the acute demand for employment. Another critical issue is the psychological state of individuals who have dared to relocate, particularly adaptation in the new city. In Odesa, as one of the major recipient cities for IDPs in southern Ukraine, there is an increased societal burden: growing demand in housing rentals, competition in the labor market, the lack of spaces in schools and kindergartens, and low logistical capacity. All these processes impact the city's infrastructure and its ability to ensure comfortable living conditions for the dwellers.