Ukraine is losing to Europe in terms of life expectancy by 8-10 years, – NAS demographer
23 September 2025 15:43
Ukraine has been facing negative trends for decades, and the war is only deepening the demographic crisis.
This was stated by Oleksandr Gladun, deputy director of the Institute of Demography and Quality of Life Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, during a discussion forum for educators and employers “You can’t let go of young people” organized by "Komersant Ukrainian".
Ukraine lags behind Europe by 8-10 years in life expectancy
One of the main indicators characterizing the state of demography is life expectancy at birth. And here Ukraine lags far behind most European countries.
“We lose 8-10 years in life expectancy to the leading European countries. This is our potential: a reserve to improve the situation and slow down the rate of population decline,” noted Gladun.
Another unique feature of Ukraine’s demographic profile is the large gap in life expectancy between men and women.
According to Gladun, it reaches 10 years, while in most European countries it is only 2-3 years.
“We have a high mortality rate for men, especially those of working age. All over the world, women live longer – it’s a biological norm. But in Ukraine, the gap is critically large,” the demographer emphasized.
The war has become another key factor that exacerbates the demographic crisis. In conditions of constant danger and instability, people give birth less, which is a natural reaction of society. At the same time, mortality rates are rising, both among the military and civilians.
“During war, the birth rate decreases – it’s natural. Mortality is also naturally increasing: losses at the front, shelling of civilians, exacerbation of chronic diseases – all this affects demographic indicators,” explained Gladun.
According to the expert, the situation requires an urgent response. Without targeted government programs, improved healthcare and support for young families, Ukraine may face an irreversible population decline in the coming decades.
