INTEGRATION OF DEFENDERS INTO UKRAINE’S LABOR MARKET: PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF VETERANS’ RETRAINING

Abstract

The article examines the pressing issue of the socio-economic integration of veterans in Ukraine in the context of post-war recovery of society and the economy, with particular emphasis on retraining as a key instrument for returning defenders to full participation in the labor market. The authors provide a comprehensive analysis of the current legal framework, state policy, and institutional mechanisms regulating veterans’ employment and aimed at their professional adaptation. The main barriers to the implementation of retraining programs are identified: limited coverage of the target group, a formalized approach to training, insufficient individualization of educational trajectories, a lack of flexible learning formats, low levels of communication between educational institutions, state bodies and employers, as well as existing biases and stereotypes among employers regarding the hiring of veterans. The paper conducts a comparative analysis of international practices of supporting veterans in the field of employment and retraining, particularly the experience of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel, which have significant achievements in building comprehensive models of military personnel adaptation. The possibilities of adapting these models to the Ukrainian context are outlined, taking into account socio-cultural characteristics, the specifics of economic development, and the challenges of the post-war period. The necessity of transitioning to a human-centered model of retraining is substantiated, one that is based on the individualization of educational programs, the use of digital platforms for rapid and flexible learning, and the creation of an effective system of veteran support at all stages of employment. The article emphasizes that effective retraining is significant not only for the individual but also for the national economy as a whole, as it contributes to increased labor productivity, reduced unemployment, and strengthened social cohesion. The authors propose a model of a comprehensive retraining system grounded in the synergy of state policy, educational innovations, the involvement of local communities and civil society organizations, as well as partnerships with businesses, which together can ensure the real and sustainable inclusion of veterans in the socio-economic life of the country.