Top platforms for communication and business that define our present
Can you imagine the modern world without social networks? They have become an integral part of our lives, connecting millions of people around the globe. Social media is not just a tool for instant communication—it opens new horizons for business, entertainment, and content creation.
In Ukraine, as in the rest of the world, the popularity of these platforms is only growing, following global trends. So, which networks are currently favored by Ukrainians and internationally? Let’s explore this fascinating digital space together.
Number of Internet and social media users in Ukraine and worldwide
As of 2024, there are over 5 billion internet users globally, accounting for 63% of the world’s population. Of these, 4.8 billion are active social media users. In Ukraine, the picture is slightly different: out of 30 million internet users, about 70% regularly engage with social platforms. These figures highlight the high level of involvement of Ukrainians in the digital space, especially given the accessibility of mobile devices and technological advancements.
Most popular social networks in Ukraine
Ukraine keeps pace with global trends, though it has its own local preferences. Among the most notable platforms in the country, a few key players stand out:
- Instagram – around 15 million users. This platform is especially popular among the youth and entrepreneurs, as it allows quick sharing of visual content and building a personal brand.
- Facebook – over 13 million users. It serves not only for communication but also as a tool for business and organizing public initiatives.
- Telegram – about 12 million users. Thanks to its high security and functionality, Telegram has gained enormous popularity, particularly among activists and entrepreneurs.
- TikTok – over 8 million users. This platform is a favorite among young people who use it to create short videos with music and creative effects.
- YouTube – more than 20 million active users. As the leading video platform, it offers endless opportunities for entertainment, education, and business.
Other popular platforms, such as Viber (up to 20 million users) and WhatsApp (around 17 million), remain primary tools for messaging and calls.
Who leads social networks on the global stage?
Several major platforms hold top positions globally. Facebook, with 2.9 billion active users, has dominated communication and business for over two decades. YouTube, with 2.7 billion users, has become the main source of video content for people of all ages. WhatsApp, with 2.5 billion users, is an essential tool for instant communication. Instagram has attracted 2 billion users, turning visual content into the heart of digital life, while TikTok, with over 1 billion users, has captivated the younger generation and become a phenomenon in the entertainment sphere.
The portrait of a modern Internet user
The demographic profile of social media users shows that the primary audience is young people aged 18 to 34. They are the most active on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. At the same time, networks like Facebook and LinkedIn attract an older audience aged 35-55, particularly for professional and business purposes.
Most social media users live in large cities, such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv, due to better access to the internet and technology. In terms of devices, mobile phones dominate: about 80% of users interact with social networks via smartphones, while desktop computers account for only 20%. This highlights the growing trend towards mobility in the digital environment.
The impact of social media on society and business
Today, social media is more than just a communication platform. It has become a tool for building brands, conducting business, promoting products, and even organizing social movements. For instance, in Ukraine, Telegram is often used by activists and journalists to disseminate important information, while Facebook serves as a platform for social campaigns and advertising.
Globally, social media also plays a key role in business development. Instagram and Facebook allow companies to engage with customers through visual content, advertising, and direct communication. YouTube offers opportunities for content creators to monetize their creativity.
Key takeaways
Social media has long been an integral part of our lives, influencing business, entertainment, and communication. In Ukraine, as well as globally, it continues to evolve, adapting to user needs and global trends. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube showcase their versatility, while local solutions like Telegram in Ukraine highlight the importance of regional adaptations. Trends in mobile access and popularity among younger audiences remain key drivers of social media growth in the coming years.
Interestingly, by 2025, the number of social media users may exceed 5 billion—could you be part of this growing digital world?