The Council of Europe in the framework of the Programme “Decentralisation and Territorial Consolidation in Ukraine” and in co-operation with the National School of Administration of France (ENA) organised the study visit “Legal framework and practice of the institution of prefect in France” in the period 28-30 September 2015 to Paris, France. The delegation was composed of the members of the Parliament of Ukraine, Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers, First deputy Minister of Regional Development, Construction and Municipal Economy of Ukraine, representatives of the Secretariat of the line Parliamentary Committee, Presidential Administration, Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the national experts.

During the visit the Ukrainian delegates deepened their knowledge about deconcentration in France, role of ENA in the initial training of prefects, nomination, status and career, and missions of prefects, relations between prefects - central administration - government and many other issues related to functioning of the institution of prefect in France.

A number of meetings and discussions were held with the French Senators, leadership of the Ministry of Interior, Council of State, Regional Council of the region Centre Val de Loire and prefectures of regional and departmental level.