DOI: 10.46340/eppd.2024.11.3.4
Yulia Okunovska, PhD in Political Science
Vasyl’ Stus Donetsk National University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
Mykola Prymush, D.Sc. in Political Science
Vasyl’ Stus Donetsk National University, Vinnytsia, Ukraine
How to cite: Okunovska, Yu., & Prymush, M. (2024). Local Self-Government in Ukraine in the Context of a Full-Scale Invasion. Evropský politický a právní diskurz, 11, 3, 43-50. https://doi.org/10.46340/eppd.2024.11.3.4
Abstract
This article is devoted to the study of the local self-government in the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The purpose of the article is to study the local self-government after the completion of the decentralization reform and under the influence of a full-scale invasion. In the context of the study, the status of local self-government bodies during the full-scale invasion was examined. The newest regulatory framework governing the functions and powers of local authorities during the Russian invasion was studied. The status of military administrations and the powers of community heads were defined. The territorial communities prove that expanding the competencies of local self-government by delegating some state powers to its bodies is a justified and reasonable step.
A comparative analysis of sociological studies conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in 2021-2023 to determine the level of public trust in local self-government was carried out. In the course of the analysis, persisting positive support of Ukrainian citizens for the activities of local authorities was noted. This indicates a positive attitude of citizens towards the decentralization reform, although during the military invasion, certain processes of constitutionalization of the decentralization results were suspended.
It was proved that local self-government in Ukraine is capable and performs various functions to overcome the consequences of a full-scale invasion. Under martial law, local authorities work, provide services to the public and help the army. Territorial communities have become an essential link ensuring the stability of the home front in times of war. By their joint efforts, communities not only strengthen their own potential, but also play an important role in strengthening the economic potential of the country.
The study also identified a number of issues related to the lack of a strategic dialogue between the central government, local self-government, and citizens, and highlighted a need to ensure effective interaction between state-level and local authorities.
Keywords: local self-government, decentralization, community, full-scale invasion, military aggression, legislation.
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