Why Young Ukrainian Women Are Leaving Education and Not Seeking Jobs: Research Reveals Alarming Figures
A troubling trend is emerging in modern Ukraine, where young women are increasingly leaving education and not pursuing employment. A recent study has revealed that 22.5% of Ukrainians aged 15 to 34 fall into the NEET category, meaning they are not engaged in education, employment, or vocational training.
In the midst of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a resident of Chuhuiv, Yuliya Semeyeva, completed her studies at the Kupiansk Medical College. This was an exceptionally challenging period for job seekers, as many government institutions and businesses were forced to relocate away from the front lines or even suspend their operations altogether. Consequently, the 19-year-old nurse had to leave Kharkiv Oblast for Kropyvnytskyi, where she sought new employment opportunities.
In Kropyvnytskyi, Yuliya managed to secure a position as a call center operator at the Naftogaz company. However, upon returning home later in 2022, she faced months of job searching. 'It was very difficult,' Yuliya recalls, 'and I had no experience. I was looking for any job because nurses were not being hired at that time.'
The term NEET, which stands for 'Not in Education, Employment or Training,' has become relevant for many young Ukrainians. According to a comprehensive study conducted in Ukraine from October to November 2025 by the youth organization Institute of Youth on behalf of ISAR Unity, 22.5% of young people aged 15 to 34 are classified as NEET. This amounts to approximately 1.9 million individuals, of which 1.34 million are girls and young women, while another 530,000 are young men.
The research also uncovered a significant gender disparity within this category. Among young people who are neither studying nor working, the number of women classified as NEET is three times higher than that of men: 35% of women compared to 11.8% of men. This indicates that young women face additional barriers in the labor market.
In the context of war and economic instability, many young people, particularly women, are losing opportunities for development and career advancement. It is crucial to find ways to support this demographic so they can access education, secure employment, and become active participants in society. Supporting youth, especially through vocational training and employment programs, could be a key factor in addressing this issue.
In light of these challenges, Ukrainian society must focus on creating conditions for young people to realize their potential, receive education, and work. This will not only help reduce the unemployment rate among youth but also contribute to the overall development of the country.