Назад Consultation of local authorities, an essential condition for the implementation of decentralisation reforms in Ukraine

Consultation of local authorities, an essential condition for the implementation of decentralisation reforms in Ukraine

"Adherence to the principles of the European Charter of Local Self-Government is visible in Ukraine through the decentralisation reforms that have been initiated. However, several issues remain of concern and need to be taken into account" said co-rapporteurs Gunn-Marit Helgesen (Norway, PPE/CCE) and Gudrun Mosler-Törnström (Austria, SOC/G/PD) during the examination of the report on the implementation of the Charter, adopted by the Monitoring Committee on 17 September 2020.

The co-rapporteurs point out that while decentralisation reforms have led to significant progress, it unfortunately occurred without consulting local authorities. "The government must not confuse information and consultation when implementing the reforms it undertakes", they said.

It is recommended that the decentralisation reform should be pursued through a constitutional review, that a clear delimitation of competences between multi-levels of governance be established, and that financial autonomy of local governments be promoted. The introduction of the more modern "prefect" system will allow these efficiency measures to be carried out. It is also recommended that a system of regular consultation with local authorities be introduced and that the full exercise of the mandate of elected representatives be guaranteed by abolishing local recall procedures for mayors and councillors. In addition, the co-rapporteurs call for the suppression of deposits considered disproportionate and still required today to stand as a candidate in local elections.

The implementation of these recommendations would enable Ukraine to respect the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality in accordance with the European Charter of Local Self-Government.

Ukraine ratified the European Charter of Local Self-Government in 1997. Countries that have ratified the Charter are bound by its provisions. The Charter imposes respect for a minimum set of rights which constitute the first European basis for local self-government. The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe ensures compliance with these principles through its monitoring activities.

Agenda and documents:
COE CLOUD | ZIP format

Contact:
Stéphanie Poirel, tel. + 33 3 88 41 28 24

See also:

Monitoring Committee meeting - 17 September 2020

Monitoring Committee Strasbourg, France 17 September 2020
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