Over 70% of young people under 30 see their future in Ukraine — KIIS

According to a survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, 79% of Ukrainians would not move to the U.S. or European countries even if granted citizenship. Older people are the most reluctant to relocate, but more than 70% of young people under 30 also see their future in Ukraine.

This was stated by Anton Grushetsky, Executive Director of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology.

«After the start of the full-scale invasion, there was a surge of patriotism, and most people who stayed in the country would not want to move anywhere. After 2.5 years of the great war, we are increasingly seeing the narrative that Ukrainians want to leave the country, that we are desperate.

Our results show that about 80% of Ukrainians, despite the difficulties and uncertain future, plan to stay in Ukraine even if they had the opportunity to leave legally. This is an excellent indicator of the population’s resilience, emotional attachment to Ukraine, and the formation of Ukrainians as a nation.«

In September 2022, a similar survey showed that 7% of Ukrainians wanted to move abroad. That figure has now risen to 19%. However, in 2020, the share of those willing to leave was 28%. At that time, almost half of young people under 30 wanted to move out of Ukraine if given the chance, whereas now it’s about a quarter.

In December 2021, fewer than 50% of respondents were optimistic about Ukraine’s future. Immediately after the invasion, this percentage jumped to 80-90%. It currently stands at around 70%.

«Ukrainians see Ukraine as a future member of the European Union and a country with development potential. There is also a sense of patriotism and growing self-esteem. The population understands that instead of «Kyiv in three days,» Ukraine continues to repel Russia with dignity. This gives people the belief that we are a strong nation and we must stay here.«

According to Grushetsky, the desire to remain in Ukraine is more common among older people, a trend seen across all countries. Among young people under 30, 26% would like to move, and among those aged 30-44, 25% would like to leave. However, over 70% in both age groups want to stay in Ukraine.

Grushetsky added that Ukrainians remain largely optimistic. They acknowledge the current challenges and uncertainties but believe in long-term positive changes.

As a reminder, a KIIS poll in May showed that 44% of Ukrainians believe there is unity in society now.