THE EU AND UKRAINE ECONOMIES RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE CHALLENGES

Abstract

Climate challenges such as rising temperatures, droughts, floods, and extreme weather events pose systemic threats to agriculture, infrastructure, energy security, and public health. An examination of the vulnerability and readiness level of Ukraine and EU member states to climate change, with both common challenges and regional differences has been presented in the article. The study aims to identify key climate risks, evaluate national adaptive capacities, and propose mechanisms for strengthening economic resilience of EU member states and Ukraine. Findings show that Northern and Western Europe demonstrate the highest resilience, supported by strong institutions, green policies, and investments in infrastructure. In contrast, Southern and Eastern Europe display medium resilience, with Ukraine also falling into this group. However, Ukraine’s readiness remains critically low, limiting its ability to respond effectively to climate risks, particularly in the context of ongoing military aggression that amplifies climate-related challenges. To address these threats, the study proposes the “Economic Resilience Shield,” which focuses on reducing carbon intensity, expanding renewable energy, improving efficiency, and strengthening adaptation policies.