Cherchez l'homme? The Wartime Migration of Men in Ukraine: Research Note

This research note investigates wartime migration patterns of Ukrainian men in the initial months of the full-scale invasion. We utilize data from the OneUA project, which employed non-probability sampling via META’s social media platforms and survival analyses techniques to analyze the impact of demographic and socioeconomic characteristics on men’s decisions either to relocate within Ukraine (i.e., becoming internally displaced) or emigrate abroad (i.e., becoming a refugee). Exemptions from conscription under martial law are modestly reflected in the patterns of men’s emigration, with fathers of three or more children having a higher rate of international migration. Contrary to our expectations, men above conscription age, single fathers, and those in poor health did not emigrate at a higher rate compared to their male counterparts. However, higher levels of education, English proficiency, stronger financial standing, and better health are all associated with a significantly increased rate of international migration. Notably, men who reported being particularly healthy in the survey left Ukraine at higher rates compared to those in poor health. Assuming that their reported health status reflects their condition prior to leaving the country, this finding appears to contradict expectations based on martial law conditions. Our findings imply that, despite the restrictions imposed by martial law, some productive and subjectively healthy men may have left Ukraine during the initial months of the Russian invasion.