The Impact of War and European Accession on the Labour Law Reform in Ukraine

Labour law reform in Ukraine has long been a complex and politicised issue. It is overdue, not only because of the dramatic economic and social changes within the country since independence but also because of external influences related to global changes in the world of work. This paper examines the challenges and imperatives of labour law reform in Ukraine under the dual pressures of war and European Union (EU) accession. Ukraine’s status as an EU candidate provides an incentive for reform, even as the ongoing Russian invasion alters socio-economic priorities and labour market dynamics. Labour law reform is essential for supporting post-war recovery and should aim to achieve a balance between economic efficiency and worker protection. Policymakers need to reconcile competing priorities between business flexibility and workers’ rights, while social dialogue remains crucial for ensuring fair labour laws. While some contend that wartime is not the right moment for comprehensive reforms, this paper advocates for their urgency. Post-war recovery and integration into the EU require proactive reforms in employment and labour relations. Such reforms should embody the values of the European social model, emphasising social justice as a driver of economic efficiency.