The influence of social and value orientations of Ukrainian youth in wartime conditions on the formation of youth policy

Abstract

The article analyzes the transformation of young people strategies under the conditions of a full-scale war, in particular changes in professional orientations, migration attitudes, perceptions of the future, and the formation of civic identity. It has been established that under wartime conditions young people demonstrate a combination of high adaptability and a significant level of social vulnerability. The study identifies an increase in the pragmatism of young people strategies, focusing on financial independence, professional self-realization, and short-term planning. The peculiarities of youth migration orientations, problems of social isolation, and the deterioration of mental health, especially among young people staying abroad, are examined. The article also analyzes current directions in the transformation of state youth policy, particularly the implementation of the program “Youth of Ukraine: Generation of Resilience – 2030.”

It is substantiated that the war has become a factor in strengthening national identity, support for the European and Euro-Atlantic course of the state, as well as increasing civic engagement among young people through volunteer activities and their willingness to participate in the reconstruction of the country. It is argued that contemporary youth policy under wartime conditions should be oriented toward long-term perspectives. Their implementation will make it possible not only to ensure the adaptation of youth to modern challenges, but also to create the foundation for the country’s recovery, the strengthening of democratic institutions, and the sustainable development of society in the post-war period.

Based on the conducted analysis, a number of proposals are made to improve the effectiveness of youth policy. In particular, attention is paid to the need to develop mechanisms aimed at increasing the involvement of the younger generation in socio-political processes, participation in volunteer movements, civic initiatives, information resistance, and support for the country’s defense capability. An important direction of youth policy is the creation of conditions for ensuring the material independence of young people and developing their professional potential through the stimulation of youth entrepreneurship. A priority direction of youth policy should also be the development of a mental health support system and the implementation of psychological rehabilitation programs. A significant role in the development of youth policy should be played by the use of modern digital technologies, which make it possible to increase the effectiveness of communication between the state, municipal government bodies, and the youth environment.

It is concluded that under the conditions of a full-scale war, youth policy should be regarded not only as an instrument of social development, but also as an important element of national resilience and state recovery.