EMPLOYMENT FEATURES OF UKRAINIAN MIGRANTS IN THE EU COUNTRIES: AN ANALYSIS OF EMPIRICAL DATA

Abstract

The article examines the specific features of labour market integration of Ukrainian migrants in the European Union based on empirical data collected through a survey of 256 respondents residing in various EU countries. The study provides a detailed analysis of the socio-demographic profiles of migrants, including their duration of stay abroad, legal status, access to housing, and subjective assessment of economic well-being. Particular attention is given to the structure of their employment, sources of income, and the extent to which migrants rely on social benefits. The findings reveal that although most respondents possess a high level of education and demonstrate considerable potential for labour market participation, their actual integration remains heterogeneous and often constrained by multiple barriers. Among the major obstacles to employment, respondents most frequently reported limited language proficiency, a shortage of available vacancies, discriminatory attitudes from employers, and difficulties in having their qualifications recognised. At the same time, many migrants show an active willingness to improve their labour market competitiveness, primarily through language courses and short-term professional training, while longer educational trajectories remain less common. The analysis also highlights the economic vulnerability experienced by a notable share of Ukrainian migrants, despite having a formal temporary protection status that ensures legal access to employment and social services. Overall, the study identifies key patterns and challenges shaping the labour market integration of Ukrainians in the EU and outlines policy directions aimed at strengthening their economic inclusion, improving recognition procedures, expanding access to training, and ensuring equal opportunities in the host countries’ labour markets. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the adaptive strategies of forced migrants and provide an empirical basis for enhancing the effectiveness of integration policies in the context of large-scale displacement caused by the war.