Civic identity and migration decisions of university students in wartime border areas of Ukraine

Abstract

The article aims to study the youth`s life orientations in borderlands under martial law in Ukraine. The loss of territory, economic capacities, and human resources due to the destabilization of the social situation, military operations, and the occupation of several borderlands affect the potential development opportunities of Ukraine. In wartime, universities have become a center of social stability, psychological support, and national integration. Their role in forming a sense of belonging, supporting professional self-determination, activating civic position, and preventing youth migration is key to preserving the country's human capital. Systematic support of university education is considered a strategic priority of state policy in the war period. The study results were obtained from students interviewed during the second and third years of wartime. The situation has influenced the formation of youth civic identity, and the vast majority of students feel proud to be a citizen of Ukraine. 39.9% of students plan to stay and work at the borderlands after graduation. The main reasons for migration are low wages and poor prospects for the future. Still, a very high percentage of potential migrants pursuing further education or better job opportunities, and those who have not made the decision yet are observed.