DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGES AND TRANSFORMATION OF SOCIAL AND LABOR RELATIONS IN THE RURAL LABOR MARKET

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive study of demographic challenges and transformation of social and labor relations in the rural labor market of Ukraine in the context of military aggression. The relevance of the study is stipulated by the need for an in-depth analysis of the fundamental changes in social and labor relations in rural areas caused by military actions and the development of effective mechanisms for adapting to new economic conditions. The purpose of the study is to identify the main demographic trends, assess their impact on the transformation of social and labor relations, and develop recommendations for solving the identified problems. The methodological basis of the study is a systematic approach to the study of demographic and socio-economic processes. The paper uses statistical analysis methods to study the dynamics of the size and structure of the rural population, a method of comparative analysis to identify demographic trends, methods of synthesis and generalization to formulate conclusions and recommendations. Based on empirical data, a steady downward trend in the rural population has been established - over the period 2000-2022, the number of people decreased by 3.62 million (22.5%), and its share in the total population structure decreased to 30.3%. A significant gender imbalance in the older age groups has been identified, where the ratio of women to men in the age group of 80 years and older is almost 3:1. The problem of demographic aging of the rural population is identified, which is confirmed by the high proportion of elderly people (24.3%) with a low proportion of young people (21.5%). The influence of military operations on the redistribution of labor resources through internal migration and mobilization is investigated, which led to the need to adapt production processes and labor organization systems in agricultural enterprises. The transformation of social protection mechanisms for the rural population and the growing role of volunteer activities in rural communities are characterized. The practical value of the study lies in the development of a system of recommendations for solving the identified demographic and socio-economic problems, in particular through the implementation of programs to support young families, creating attractive conditions for living and working for young people in rural areas, developing social infrastructure and alternative types of employment. Mechanisms for adapting social protection systems to the needs of internally displaced persons, military families and other vulnerable groups are proposed. The results of the study can be used in the development of strategies for post-war recovery and development of rural areas, as well as in the formation of regional programs of socio-economic development.