TRENDS IN IMPROVING UKRAINE’S MIGRATION POLICY IN THE CONTEXT OF ENHANCING INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY OF CITIZENS

Abstract

In the face of aggression and war, the difficult situation in the country, the acquisition of a visafree regime with the EU, which greatly increased the opportunities for international mobility of Ukrainians, migration abroad has acquired new features and scales that require state response. In 2018, an inter-factional union of MPs on labor migration was formed in parliament. In 2019 only several draft laws were registered. They raised the key issues for the implementation of the state migration policy regarding (1) the institutional capacity of the state in regulating migration processes, (2) legal and social protection of Ukrainian citizens abroad, (3) state support of the diaspora, including the “new” diaspora, in order to encourage repatriation to Ukraine, (4) overcoming the shortage of human resources needed for the country’s economy through the immigration of foreigners.

At the same time, the review of parliamentary parties’ election programs shows that their interest in solving migration problems is generally low, the debate around them is fragmented. At the same time, the topic of labor migration is being lobbied by business, concerned about the outflow of workers. The departure of young people and professionals excites the public that is aware that it can slow down the economic development of the country, impede reform and innovation. Therefore, the pressure on the authorities to improve migration policy will increase. Given the public sentiment, various policy initiatives are expected to improve migration legislation and institutional enforcement. It is important that the position of civil society, social partners, ensure the consistency and consistency of relevant work.