Lviv hosted a meeting in the framework of the “Strasbourg Format”, dedicated to the role of district councils in the current system of local self-government and the further reform of multi-level governance in Ukraine.

The discussion brought together representatives of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, relevant ministries, local governments and their national associations, the expert community, and international partners. The Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories was represented by Deputy Minister Oleksii Riabykin.

 

 

During the meeting, the participants discussed the future of local councils and the Plan for the Reform of Local Self-Government.

‘The decentralisation reform has proved its effectiveness. Strong communities have become one of the key pillars of Ukraine’s resilience during this full-scale war. The next stage is to complete the formation of a modern system of multi-level governance, in which each level of authority will have clearly defined powers, resources, and accountability to the people,’ said Oleksii Riabykin.

 

 

During the discussion, the participants also focused on the principle of subsidiarity, which is one of the fundamental principles of the European Charter of Local Self-Government. It stipulates that decisions should be taken at the level of authority that is closest to the people and best able to carry out the relevant functions effectively.

 

 

The “Strasbourg Format” is a methodology developed by the Council of Europe to reach consensus on complex matters relating to reform. In Ukraine, this format has already become an effective platform for working out solutions that are taken into account when formulating public policy in local self-government and the territorial organisation of power.

 

 

The event was organised by the Council of Europe Office in Ukraine in partnership with the Ukrainian Association of District and Regional Councils within the framework of the project “Strengthening multilevel governance and local democracy to support Ukraine's recovery”, with the participation of U-LEAD with Europe programme.