SOCIAL ADAPTATION OF COMBATANTS: FOREIGN EXPERIENCE AND DOMESTIC REALITIES

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to provide a theoretical substantiation of ways to improve the social adaptation of combatants based on foreign experience. The article reveals the relevance of the problem of social adaptation of combatants and the importance of finding effective ways to ensure it in the conditions of a full-scale military invasion. Scientific approaches to the essence and significance of the subject of research have been studied, and our own understanding of the category of social adaptation of combatants has been formed: it is a complex, long-term, and comprehensive process of recovery, adaptation, and integration of former military personnel into civilian life, covering the social, psychological, economic, legal, and cultural aspects of their lives. It involves restoring a person's ability to perform social roles, adapting to civilian life, forming new social connections, overcoming the effects of physiological and psychological trauma, and changing value orientations and professional skills. The features of social adaptation of combatants in the United States, Israel, Germany, France, and Great Britain have been studied, and it has been noted that the experience of these countries can be used in domestic realities. The state of social adaptation of combatants in Ukraine has been studied, and a trend towards a rapid increase in the number of combatants and persons with disabilities as a result of the war during 2021–2025 has been identified. A high level of digitization of administrative and social services for combatants in Ukraine has been noted in comparison with foreign countries. Areas for improving the social adaptation of combatants have been proposed as follows: development of housing and social programs; provision of educational and informational support; development of partnerships between the state, communities, and public organizations; support for veteran sports and leisure activities; development of veteran self-government; support for families of those killed and missing in action; digitization of social services; development of a system of psychological rehabilitation and support; facilitation of employment and professional reintegration. Prospects for further research lie in the formation of practical recommendations for improving the social adaptation of combatants in the post-war period.