Attachments
This research was conducted by Open Space Works Ukraine and NGO «Kyiv educational center «Tolerspace».
Key findings
Ukrainian youth primarily conceptualise humanitarian action as grassroots, community-based efforts, often equating it with volunteering. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, TikTok, and Telegram, serve as key engagement tools, but they mainly reach those already proactive in social initiatives, limiting broader participation. Community-based approaches, personal networks, and referrals play a significant role in mobilisation, particularly in rural areas where digital outreach is less effective. Educational institutions have vast but largely untapped potential for systematic youth engagement, though participation remains limited due to rigid administrative structures.
Youth involvement in humanitarian action spans various roles and responsibilities, from short-term volunteering to sustained coordination and leadership positions. Their engagement extends across different domains, including emergency response, child-focused initiatives, reconstruction efforts, and crisis cleanup. While many youth initially become involved in spontaneous volunteerism, structured mentorship and long-term participation provide pathways for leadership. However, despite this active involvement, leadership positions remain limited, and external organisations play a crucial role in fostering leadership skills.
A complex interplay of factors motivates young people to participate in humanitarian action. Empathy and personal connections to crisis-affected individuals are strong motivators, alongside opportunities for social connection and career development. Humanitarian engagement fosters project management, stakeholder communication, and leadership skills, yet career pathways in the sector remain underpromoted. To bridge this gap, organisations must better support young people in transitioning from volunteering to professional roles through structured mentorship and training programs.
Youth engagement faces several challenges, including significant rural-urban disparities in access to opportunities. Rural youth encounter logistical and financial barriers that limit their ability to participate. Family influence can either enable or restrict engagement, particularly in rural areas where traditional values sometimes discourage civic participation. Additionally, safety concerns, emotional strain, and the risk of burnout present further obstacles, highlighting the need for psychological support and safeguarding measures.