MIGRATION PROCESSES AND HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF UKRAINE’S POST-WAR ECONOMIC RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract

The subject of the study is to analyse key trends in global migration processes, including the opportunities available to Ukrainian refugees and their role within these processes. The study will also examine ways to preserve domestic human capital through the development of strategic directions for Ukraine's post-war economic recovery, specifically with regard to migration policy. The study's methodological framework is based on general scientific research methods. The analytical method made it possible to demonstrate the impact of migration on the size, state and quality of domestic human capital. Statistical methods and comparative analysis revealed the nature of migration processes in EU countries and showed how Ukrainian refugees are distributed unevenly across Europe, depending on various factors including minimum wage levels. The synthesis method facilitated the organisation of the research, determined the feasibility of developing a state migration policy strategy and helped to draw conclusions and suggest future research on this topic. The research results revealed the dynamics of migration processes and the influx of new labour into the European labour market. Meanwhile, Ukraine experienced a labour shortage as refugees sought safety during the full-scale war. This necessitates changes to Ukraine's existing migration policy, in order to reflect current realities and encourage Ukrainians to return home to participate in post-war reconstruction. This would be driven by positive shifts across multiple economic sectors, which highlights the practical value of this study. Practical implications. The study's practical significance lies in establishing a scientifically grounded framework for optimising state migration policy and developing effective human capital management strategies amidst global crises. By analysing the specific characteristics of Ukrainian refugees, viable mechanisms can be created to preserve the nation's intellectual and labour potential. This can transform the experience of forced migration into an opportunity to capitalise on new knowledge and skills. The findings of this study are of strategic importance for demographic modelling, labour market forecasting and leveraging the investment and intellectual potential of the diaspora. This is essential for comprehensive post-war reconstruction project planning and execution in Ukraine. Value/Originality. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of migration processes, their current state and development trends. It emphasises the role of migration in shaping human capital amidst contemporary global challenges, as well as the specific characteristics of the domestic labour market. These characteristics create the prerequisites for economic competitiveness, macro-security, a favourable investment climate and the formulation of a state migration policy strategy. This strategy is part of the strategic direction for Ukraine's post-war economic reconstruction.