The first regional consultation on the implementation of the Concept of reforming local self-government and territorial organization of power in the context of military actions and preparation for Ukraine's membership in the European Union was held in Odessa.
Participants discussed new approaches to the development of local self-government and measures that will ensure the resilience of communities during the war and preparation for European integration, the Ministry of Community Development and Territories reported.
'Today our task is to adapt the decentralization reform to new conditions. This means improving the legislative framework, strengthening the capabilities of local authorities, restoring the powers of self-governing bodies after de-occupation, as well as preparing them to operate under European rules. We must clearly delineate powers at all levels of government and provide communities with sufficient resources to fulfill their obligations,' emphasized the Deputy Minister of Community Development and Territories Oleksiy Ryabikin.
The delineation of powers between the state and local self-government bodies is an important part of the reform that will help Ukraine when joining the European Union. The Concept of reforming local self-government and territorial organization of power, approved back in 2014, became an important foundation for decentralization, allowing local communities to gain more rights and resources.
Currently, a document is being discussed that will determine the next steps in the reform of local self-government, including the capacity of communities, financial independence of self-government bodies, and their readiness to work in European programs and projects.
Participants in the consultation in Odessa discussed important new approaches to the development of local self-government in the context of military actions and preparation for European integration. Adapting reforms to new realities, improving legislation, and preparing communities for work according to European standards are the main tasks facing the participants. The reform of local self-government in Ukraine is vital for preparing the country for European integration and ensuring greater autonomy and development of communities.