Not working and not studying: approximately 1.34 million young women in Ukraine are outside the labor market
7 March 10:12
A study dedicated to the so-called NEET (not in education, employment, or training) group—young people who are not working, studying, or taking professional courses—was presented in Kyiv. According to the analysis, there are about 1.34 million young women in Ukraine with NEET status. This is 35% of women aged 15-34, while among men this figure is 11.8%.
This was reported by the State Employment Service, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Critical age
It is noted that the most critical period is between the ages of 20 and 24: it is at this time that the lack of initial professional experience and the onset of family responsibilities create barriers to employment. At the age of 25-29, these barriers are often exacerbated by motherhood, forced displacement, disability, or living in rural and frontline communities.
The study refutes the myth of a lack of qualifications: 70% of women in this NEET group have higher or vocational education. The main reason for unemployment is caring for children or relatives, which is the case for 75% of those surveyed. Additional factors include motherhood, disability, forced displacement, and living in frontline areas.
Awareness and potential
The level of knowledge about state assistance remains low: 39% of women are unaware of existing programs, and 51% have only general information. At the same time, 64% of respondents are ready to undergo free training for further employment.
“We continue to break down the outdated stereotype that the State Employment Service is just a ‘exchange’ for unemployment benefits. In fact, it is a service of real opportunities that helps people find a job, get training, or start their own business,” emphasized Yulia Zhovtyak, director of the Employment Service.
Statistics for 2025
Employment Service data shows positive dynamics over the past year:
- the number of applications from women increased by 7%;
- demand for vocational training increased by 33%;
- the number of women employed increased by 22%;
- 60% of recipients of “Own Business” microgrants are women.
Today, 80% of all Employment Service clients are women. In this regard, the agency is adapting its services for those returning to work after maternity leave and developing remote digital job search tools.
