Theoretical foundation of public administration in the sphere of water supply and water drainage

The sphere of water supply and drainage is a critically important component of the socio-economic mechanism, which is characterized by numerous challenges that were actualized in wartime. Aim of this paper is to analyze the main theoretical approaches of public management in the field of water supply and drainage in order to identify the main principles and tools that affect the efficiency and sustainability of the field. The tools of strategic planning, operational management and emergency response are considered as key components of successful management in this area. Emphasis is placed on the special role of developing fair tariff policies and financial support for infrastructure investments. The importance of the legal framework that regulates the sphere, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and protection of consumer rights is highlighted. The environmental aspect of resource management in the field, which includes modern methods of wastewater treatment and minimizing the negative impact on natural water bodies, is considered. It was emphasized that state intervention is a key factor in ensuring equal access to clean water, which is a basic human right according to the United Nations. The problem of natural monopoly in the field is considered through the prism of high capital investments and low elasticity of demand, which limit market competition. Strategies to stimulate competition and improve service quality are explored, including regulating tariffs and encouraging innovation. The example of Scotland, where water supply management is centralized through the creation of a single national company Scottish Water, reveals the effectiveness of such an approach in improving infrastructure and ensuring high quality services with public participation. The importance of a multidisciplinary approach to management in the field is emphasized, with a special emphasis on the stability of the service in wartime. The research may be useful to researchers, state and local authorities, and international organizations. Further perspectives of research include the study of the peculiarities of the application of the theoretical base in the solution of scientific and practical problems in the field in Ukraine during the war.