Organization of intermunicipal cooperation within urban agglomerations in the states of the European Union

The article is dedicated to the study of the organization of inter-municipal cooperation within urban agglomerations of European Union member states, with a focus on legal, organizational, and practical aspects. Based on a comparative analysis of the experiences of France, Germany, and Scandinavian countries, three key models of inter-municipal interaction are identified: contractual, institutional, and mixed. The study highlights their adaptations to contemporary challenges such as rapid urbanization, decentralization, environmental issues, and digital transformation. Specific features of legal regulation, financial mechanisms, and forms of cooperation that ensure effective agglomeration management are determined. Particular attention is given to the potential for adapting European practices to the conditions of Ukraine, where decentralization reforms necessitate new approaches to territorial community cooperation. Recommendations are proposed for improving the legislative framework, creating incentives for community unification around shared issues, and implementing digital management tools. The study also analyzes the evolution of inter-municipal cooperation forms, from informal agreements to complex institutional structures, emphasizing the role of subsidiarity and sustainable development principles. Analysis of specific case studies from European Union countries demonstrates the effectiveness of these models in addressing infrastructural, economic, and environmental challenges. For Ukraine, the adaptation of these practices could strengthen local self-governance and regional development in the context of ongoing reforms, particularly considering the impact of war and migration factors on territorial communities.