Issue of establishing socially responsible public procurement of tactical equipment

The purpose of this study was to examine the specific feature of legal regulation of socially oriented public procurement with a focus on tactical equipment. The study comprehensively analysed the current legislation and identified key shortcomings, specifically the lack of mechanisms for the implementation of socially responsible criteria in the public procurement process. It was found that the focus on the lowest price in tenders hinders the assurance of product quality and social labour standards. The study also covered an analysis of international practices, including European Union legislation, specifically Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement, which could be adapted in Ukraine. The study found that Ukraine faces a series of challenges related to socially responsible public procurement, particularly of tactical equipment. Procurement procedures, specifically for body armour, require substantial changes to improve efficiency and reduce corruption risks. One of the key problems is the lengthy procedures, which do not meet the needs of urgent deliveries for the military. As a result, instead of using public procurement, many unit commanders and volunteers turn to charitable organisations or private suppliers, leading to unauthorised deliveries and fraud. The study also analysed the practices of the United States and Finland in socially responsible procurement of tactical equipment. In Finland, public procurement includes environmental and social criteria for selecting suppliers, which ensures high quality standards and promotes the sustainable development of local production. Analysis of the US practices showed the significance of supporting local suppliers through programmes such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation, which encourages small businesses and suppliers and gives preference to domestic goods in federal procurement. The findings of the study indicated the necessity of simplifying procurement procedures. This would markedly improve the efficiency of public resource use, reduce corruption risks, and ensure the quality of tactical equipment supplies for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine