Ukraine's National Census Delayed Until Years After War's End.

Ukraine's Postponed Population Census

According to TSN.ua: Arsen Makarchuk, head of Ukraine's State Statistics Service, has stated that conducting a national census during the ongoing war is impossible. He indicated that a census could only be carried out roughly one and a half to two years after the conflict concludes, which some forecasts suggest may be around 2028-2029. This delay creates a significant data gap for a nation undergoing profound demographic shifts.

The last full national census in Ukraine was conducted in 2001. At the start of 2022, just over 42 million people lived in Ukraine. However, within the country's 1991 borders, the population is currently estimated at approximately 35-36 million. These figures highlight dramatic demographic changes over the past two decades, underscoring the urgent need for updated information to guide national recovery.

Only after the end of hostilities can we return to the question of conducting a census, which is crucial for understanding current demographic trends in Ukraine.

Arsen Makarchuk

Currently, the lack of current population data complicates planning for social programs and economic strategies, as demographic shifts can significantly impact all areas of life. With the war and numerous internally displaced persons, an accurate assessment of the population's size and structure is critically important for the country's post-conflict reconstruction and future development.