ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE ECONOMIC STRUCTURE OF CITIES

Abstract

This article examines the challenges of human resource assessment, which stem, first, from a shortage of human capital due to depopulation and migration processes resulting from military invasion, mobilization, and other factors; and second, from changes in the structure of urban economies driven by the transformation of the post-industrial stage of the economy and urbanization processes. Data on internally displaced persons in Ukraine as of May 2026 are presented, demonstrating that the majority of internally displaced persons reside in cities. Global urbanization trends as of November 2025 are outlined. It is demonstrated that 81% of the world’s population are urban residents. Projections are presented regarding the number of countries by settlement type with the largest share of the total population by level of urbanization by 2050. The structure of Ukraine’s population by age group is presented as of the beginning of 1993 and 2022, along with projections through 2037. Conclusions are drawn that it is necessary to preserve human capital. To achieve the article’s objective – assessing human resources in the context of urban economic transformation – a methodological approach is presented for evaluating the impact of the transformation of the economic structure of large cities on Ukraine’s economic development. This approach includes six stages of analysis and covers the following economic sectors: industry, construction, trade, and services. Indicators for assessing the city’s human resources have been developed, divided into socio-demographic and human resources. The prospects for urban development through the growth of metropolitan areas are demonstrated. It is emphasized that the further development of cities in line with the “Smart City” concept contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Indicators for assessing Target 11.6 – “Ensure the development and implementation of local development strategies aimed at economic growth, job creation, the development of tourism, recreation, local culture, and local production”– are provided, which will help “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable” by 2030.