YOUTH WORKER IN THE YOUTH POLICY SYSTEM OF UKRAINE: THE PROCESS OF FORMATION, FUNCTIONS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

The article analyzes the role of a youth specialist (youth worker) as one of the components of youth policy in Ukraine.The author investigates how a youth worker influences the process of forming and implementing youth policy, developing civil society, and democratizing socio-political processes. The process of official recognition and legislative consolidation of this profession is considered, in particular, international documents and national regulatory legal acts are analyzed.The paper examines the main functions of a youth worker, including: assessing the needs of youth, organizing and implementing youth work, interacting with other youth policy actors, and acting as a mediator between youth and government agencies.The main problems and challenges faced by representatives of this profession are analyzed, in particular, the low level of public recognition, low institutional support, lack of funding, and the impact of a full-scale war on the effectiveness of youth work. Particular attention is paid to the opportunities for the development of the profession in the context of European integration, strengthening the institution of democracy in Ukraine and expanding opportunities for young people to be involved in decision-making processes.The paper notes current trends in the development of youth work in Ukraine, proposes mechanisms for supporting and increasing the effectiveness of youth workers in modern conditions. Opportunities for improving working conditions are identified, in particular through international support, expanding opportunities for professional training and creating networks of active interaction. The conclusion is made about the need to strengthen state support for youth workers, improve mechanisms for their training and increase the level of their professional development. The results of the study may be useful for scientists, specialists in the field of youth policy, representatives of public organizations and local governments.