The Ukrainian government is intensifying its focus on the labor market by introducing a new initiative aimed at employing individuals aged 50 and older. This program seeks to address the labor shortage in critical sectors of the economy, as discussed during a recent meeting featuring Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and Ella Libanova, head of the Institute of Demography and Social Research.
According to Svyrydenko, the workforce is a vital resource for Ukraine’s economic resilience amid ongoing conflict and future recovery efforts. The government is actively developing incentives for employers and creating new opportunities for experienced individuals to re-enter the job market.
The national initiative, titled “Experience Matters,” focuses on adult internships for those aged 50 and above. It consists of three main phases:
- Preparation and training, which includes updating resumes and adapting skills to meet current market demands,
- Meetings with employers to discuss potential collaboration formats,
- Internships or employment opportunities with the possibility of continued work.
This program will be implemented in collaboration with the State Employment Center, businesses, and community partners.
A study titled “Labor Market After 50” indicates that older workers do not exit the labor market due to a lack of experience; rather, employers often value their reliability. However, 65% of companies cite insufficient digital skills as a barrier, while 60% acknowledge the impact of age-related stereotypes during the hiring process.
The government asserts that this new employment policy aims to position human capital as the primary resource of the economy and to dismantle obstacles to employment for individuals of various ages. Ukrainians aged 50 and over are encouraged to participate in the program, while employers are urged to offer internships for experienced candidates.
The Ukrainian government has initiated a program to enhance employment opportunities for individuals aged 50 and older, addressing labor shortages in key sectors. The initiative, "Experience Matters," aims to integrate older workers into the job market through training and internships, while also tackling barriers such as digital skills deficits and age stereotypes.