The head of the Institute of Demography and Social Research, Ella Libanova, said that the most likely return of Ukrainians from abroad is among highly qualified specialists. In an interview with the publication NV, she noted that the first to return are those citizens who have their own business, housing and high earnings in Ukraine.
Libanova explained that those who lost their jobs or whose homes were destroyed as a result of the war have less chance of returning. She noted that for many Ukrainians, the "honeymoon" with European life has already ended, as they faced difficulties of adaptation abroad. Differences in schools, medical services and even food became obstacles to a comfortable life in new conditions.
Libanova drew special attention to the problem of non-recognition of Ukrainian qualifications abroad. Many specialists who had a high status in Ukraine face problems in finding employment abroad. "Here I am a candidate of sciences, an associate professor, a doctor, everyone respects me, and there, at best, I am a nurse," the expert noted.
Demographic challenges for Ukraine
In a previous interview with Glavkom, Libanova said that Ukraine will never have a population of 50 million, and the country should adapt its economy to a smaller number of people. Before the war, there were only 45 people per square kilometer in Ukraine, which is much lower than the average figure in Europe. After the war, population density is expected to drop to less than 30 people per square kilometer in some regions.
The expert also emphasized the need to attract migrants to maintain the demographic level. According to her forecasts, in order to keep Ukraine's population at the level of 30 million, the country must receive at least 300,000 migrants annually.
