Ukraine confronts labor shortage as need for soldiers drains workforce

Ukrainian businesses face a severe labor shortage due to mass mobilization and displacement caused by the war. Women are now being hired for traditionally male-dominated jobs to fill the gap. The conflict has forced the Pavlohrad coal mine to allow women to work underground for the first time. This has provided new opportunities for women like Tatyiana Ustymenko, who has always dreamed of being a miner. The labor shortage is straining Ukraine's economy, which relies heavily on foreign aid. Companies are raising wages to attract workers, but some businesses risk shutting down due to a lack of staff. Government efforts to reserve male employees in critical industries are facing challenges. Farms, in particular, are experiencing a shortage of tractor drivers, impacting agricultural productivity. The post-war labor market is uncertain, with women hoping to retain their newly acquired roles. Despite the challenges, Ukraine's economy is expected to experience relative growth this year.