The population of Ukraine is constantly shrinking: this year its number may decrease to 35.8 million people compared to 42 million in 2022. If the trends remain unchanged, the country's population may decrease to 25.2 million by 2051.
Cryopreservation as a strategy for preserving the gene pool
In order to prevent a demographic catastrophe, Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets proposed to allocate budget funds for cryopreservation of reproductive cells of the Ukrainian military. This proposal has already been taken into account in the state budget for 2025.
In addition, a new program of medical guarantees started in 2024, which provides for the treatment of infertility with the help of reproductive technologies. UAH 106.5 million has been allocated for this initiative, and more than 1,000 people have already taken part in the program.
Reproductive health as a state priority
Lubinets called for better informing citizens about the possibilities of state programs and improving the legislation on biological parenthood. This includes changes to the Civil and Family Codes, as well as legislation that affects military personnel and their families.
"Issues of reproductive health and preservation of the gene pool of the Ukrainian people should become a priority of state policy," the ombudsman emphasized.
180 years to extinction?
According to the honored doctor of Ukraine Olga Bogomolets, if the current situation does not change, the Ukrainian nation may disappear in 180 years. Low birth rates and high death rates are key factors that are already creating significant challenges in the labor market.
Sociologist Yevhen Golovakha notes that to compensate for the labor shortage, the country will have to attract workers from abroad.
