7 Million People in 'Internal Reserve': Sobolev Discusses Potential Workforce Engagement

In his recent Facebook post, Oleksiy Sobolev, the Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture, reported that Ukraine possesses a vast potential for attracting new workers to its labor market. According to Sobolev, currently, 13.1 million people are employed in Ukraine; however, only 10.5 million of them are contributing to the unified social tax. This figure represents approximately one-third of the entire population of the country.

Sobolev emphasized that there exists an internal reserve in Ukraine, comprising around seven million individuals. This reserve includes internally displaced persons of working age, youth, and people with disabilities who are currently not engaged in the labor market. It also encompasses Ukrainians under the age of 60 who are receiving pensions, as well as individuals with caregiving responsibilities.

The minister noted that the government has already approved the first package of decisions under a new employment policy aimed at addressing the labor shortage faced by most businesses in Ukraine. These principles are embedded in the Employment Strategy until 2030, and the Ministry of Economy is now beginning their implementation through a series of programs.

The proposed programs include training and professional development for personnel in the defense industry and other priority sectors. The government plans to introduce state co-financing for training based on employer demand through a voucher program, which will help meet the actual demand for specialists in various fields.

For individuals over the age of 50, a project titled 'Experience Matters' is being implemented, aimed at assisting in a swift return to work through training, internships, and brief interviews. This project is designed to enhance the competitiveness of older workers in the labor market.

Young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 25 are also receiving mentoring support and simplified access to micro-grants, enabling them to realize their business ideas. Additionally, students and youth aged 14-16 are undergoing career orientation in collaboration with UNICEF, which includes working with coordinators and visiting employers for practical experience.

The government has also supported the 'Point of Support' program, which provides assistance to businesses and workers during downtime caused by the armed aggression of the Russian Federation. One of the critical aspects of this program is simplifying the process of terminating employment contracts with employers in temporarily occupied territories or combat zones.

Moreover, forecasting the demand for specialists and skilled workers is being implemented, allowing for effective planning of workforce training for the country's economy. This is a crucial step towards ensuring stable development in Ukraine's labor market.

It is worth noting that the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has also approved a draft of a new Labor Code, which is currently being prepared for its first reading. This document aims to improve labor legislation and enhance working conditions in the country.

Photo: Oleksiy Sobolev, Facebook

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