First Deputy Minister of Social Policy Daria Marchak stated this, according to Delo.ua.According to her, Ukraine is experiencing a deep demographic crisis characterized by rapid population aging. The share of people aged 65 and older increased from 12% in 1991 to 18% in 2021, and in 2024 it reached 22%.Because of the challenges and threats caused by the prolonged war, demographers predict that by 2041, Ukraine’s population may decrease to 28.9 million people, and by 2051 — to 25.2 million."Demographics are greatly changing and affecting the labor market. Seventy-four percent of employers are experiencing a staff shortage, and the average deficit in companies is about 15% of their workforce," the official said.She also recalled that to restore the economy, Ukraine needs an additional 4–5 million people.According to Marchak, in order to overcome the crisis in the labor market, Ukraine must eradicate ageism. The Deputy Minister noted that 69% of men and 67% of women aged 50 and older have faced ageism, as employers often offer vacancies to younger people."Older people are less willing to look for work, and this is a big problem because they need to be involved in the labor market. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure equal treatment for all job seekers," she emphasized.Earlier, the State Employment Service named the number of unemployed Ukrainians and explained why most of them are women.