VOLUNTEER MOVEMENT AS A SUPPLY NETWORK: ANALYSIS, CHALLENGES, AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

This article is dedicated to the study of the structure, operational features, and efficiency of the volunteer movement in the context of Ukraine's modern socio-economic and political realities. Volunteer organizations play a key role in supporting the population, responding to crisis situations, assisting the military, helping socially vulnerable groups, and developing civil society. In this regard, the relevance of researching volunteer networks and finding optimal ways for their operation becomes particularly significant. The objective of this study is to identify and analyze the key parameters of volunteer networks, which will further enable the development of mathematical models of their activities, as well as the construction of formal criteria for their operational efficiency. This is necessary to optimize the work of such organizations and improve their ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. The research methodology includes a systematic analysis that allows viewing volunteer networks as complex dynamic systems; a comparative method, which makes it possible to assess the differences and common features of various volunteer initiatives; and a case-study analysis of practical examples of volunteer activities. This approach has made it possible to obtain a comprehensive picture of the functioning of the volunteer movement, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and develop recommendations for its further development. The study demonstrates the unique characteristics of volunteer supply networks, including high flexibility in decision-making, rapid response to emergencies, a horizontal management structure, and a focus on achieving maximum social impact. Key factors influencing the operational efficiency of volunteer organizations have been identified, among which the motivation of participants, organizational structure, level of technological support, and the presence of well-established communication channels stand out. The results of this study can serve as a basis for further improvement of the activities of volunteer organizations, the development of specialized information platforms for coordinating their work, and the formation of state policy in the field of support and development of the volunteer movement. The application of the proposed approaches can contribute to increasing the resilience of volunteer initiatives, expanding their influence, and improving the overall efficiency of work in the field of social assistance and population support.