ASSESSMENT OF LABOR MARKET INDICATORS CHARACTERIZING THE ENSURING OF ECONOMIC SECURITY

Abstract

Relevance. Ensuring economic security is a priority for the state, with the labor market being a key element. Growing regional disparities, structural changes, and the challenges of digital transformation necessitate the development of modern tools for the comprehensive assessment and monitoring of threats in the sphere of employment. Purpose of the study is to develop and test an original methodology for assessing labor market indicators that characterize the state of economic security at the regional level. Methodology. The research is based on a systemic approach, which includes building a hierarchical system of weighted indicators, their normalization, calculating an integral index, and using cluster analysis for an objective classification of regions by security level. The methodology integrates the ILO's «decent work» concept. Results and conclusions. Testing the methodology on data from 2003—2024 revealed significant regional differentiation. The leaders are resource-industrial enclaves and post-industrial centers, while the highest risks are concentrated in depressed industrial regions. Negative trends related to the growth of informal employment and declining labor productivity were identified. An additional analysis of digital transformation strategies showed high risks of IT staff shortages in 44.7 % of the regions. Application area. The research results can be used by state and regional authorities to develop differentiated labor market policies, support managerial decision-making, and neutralize threats to economic security.