THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION ON WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY, CAREER, AND WORKING CONDITIONS: THE CASE OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN UKRAINE

Abstract

This article examines the impact of forced internal migration on the professional identity, career trajectories, and working conditions of
women in the context of the war in Ukraine. The object of the study is the professional adaptation of internally displaced women, including their ability to restore career development and integrate into new socio-economic conditions. The aim of the study is to identify key factors that facilitate or hinder access to the labor market, professional self-determination, and social adaptation of internally displaced women. The main tasks include analyzing theoretical approaches to forced migration and professional adaptation, identifying barriers to employment, assessing the influence of psychological resilience, education, and retraining programs on
career opportunities, and examining the role of local authorities’ support and participation in international programs in promoting the integration of internally displaced women. The methodology employs a comprehensive approach, including the analysis of scientific literature and theoretical frameworks, a survey conducted among internally displaced women in four regions of Western Ukraine, and a comparison of the results with international practices in migrant adaptation. The key findings indicate that professional adaptation of internally displaced women largely depends on psychological resilience, access to retraining and upskilling programs, active 
support from local authorities, and opportunities to participate in international projects. It was found that involving women in decision-making processes regarding integration programs enhances the effectiveness of their social and professional adaptation. Based on the study, recommendations are proposed to improve conditions for professional integration and social recovery of internally displaced women, aimed at strengthening economic stability, ensuring gender equality, and supporting sustainable development of local communities.