YOUTH VOLUNTEERING IN UKRAINE DURING THE WAR: TRANSFORMATIONS, CHALLENGES, AND WAYS TO ENHANCE EFFECTIVENESS

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the organization of youth volunteering in the context of the war in Ukraine. The increasing role of young people as a key resource for supporting the Armed Forces, assisting victims, and strengthening social stability is emphasized. The purpose of the study is to identify the factors influencing the effectiveness of the volunteer movement and to develop recommendations for its optimization. The methodology is based on the analysis of scientific sources, the regulatory framework, and the results of a sociological survey of young volunteers. The study revealed the transformation of volunteering activities from socio-cultural projects in the pre-war period to humanitarian aid, support of the Armed Forces, and psychologi- cal assistance during the war. The key barriers identified include emotional burnout, insufficient funding, and limited state support. Special attention is paid to the importance of digital platforms for coordinating efforts and expanding youth participation. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the systematic analysis of changes in the structure, motivation, and resource support of the vol- unteer movement under wartime challenges. The findings may serve as a basis for improving state policy, educational programs, and digital services in the field of youth volunteering.