Strasbourg-Style Meeting
A gathering modeled on the Strasbourg format took place in Lviv, focusing on the function of district councils and the advancement of multi-level governance in Ukraine. Participants included national government officials, local self-government representatives, experts, and international partners. The central topics were the future of local councils and the Local Self-Government Reform Plan.
Deputy Minister Oleksii Riabykin highlighted the effectiveness of the decentralization reform, stating that
“strong communities have become a key pillar of Ukraine’s resilience during the full-scale war.”He added that the next phase involves completing a modern multi-level governance system where each level of authority has clearly defined powers, resources, and accountability to the people.
Principle of Subsidiarity
Special attention was given to the principle of subsidiarity, a core tenet of the European Charter of Local Self-Government, which calls for decisions to be made at the level closest to citizens. The event was organized by the Council of Europe Office in Ukraine, in partnership with the Ukrainian Association of District and Regional Councils. The ULEAD with Europe Programme also participated.
This meeting marks a significant step in Ukraine’s local governance reform, particularly amid the challenges posed by the ongoing war. Strengthening the role of local councils and clarifying responsibilities across different government tiers can improve administrative efficiency and better address public needs. Embracing subsidiarity also underscores the importance of community involvement in decision-making, which can boost public trust in authorities.
As Ukraine continues to strengthen local governance, the collaboration between Ukrainian communities and European regions plays a crucial role in enhancing administrative effectiveness. This partnership not only fosters resilience but also aligns with the ongoing reforms discussed in Lviv, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes.