Abstract: The paper examines the dynamics of Ukrainian refugees’ migration due to conflict and their integration into European labor markets using Lee’s migration theory. It considers the displacement effects and the integration challenges and opportunities presented by such migrations. It highlights the need for Ukraine to engage its displaced citizens and explores the benefits of return migration that includes new skills, aiding Ukraine’s socio-economic stability. Furthermore, it discusses how migration flows triggered by war challenge but can also enrich regional labor markets through new socio-economic networks formed by migrants. Integrating these migrants through education, retraining, and entrepreneurial support can stabilize and grow local economies.
Key words: migration flows, forced migration, socio-economic networks, regional labor markets, Ukrainian refugees, Lee’s migration theory, integration strategies, return migration
