A new paradigm of local democracy in Ukraine

The article provides a comprehensive legal and scholarly analysis of new forms of community participation in addressing local issues, as enshrined in the Law of Ukraine “On Local Self-Government in Ukraine” as amended by Law No. 3703-IX of May 9, 2024. The relevance of the study is driven by the need to strengthen the democratic foundations of local self-governance in Ukraine, particularly in light of the ongoing decentralization reform and the country’s European integration aspirations. The article aims to provide an in-depth examination of the legal regulation, implementation procedures, historical practices in Ukraine since the adoption of the Law of Ukraine «On Local Self-Government in Ukraine» (May 1997), as well as the advantages and shortcomings of participatory democracy mechanisms. Methodological recommendations from central executive authorities and the practice of implementing relevant participation tools in Ukrainian communities , including the use of information and communication technologies, are analyzed. The study finds that the new legislation is intended to systematize and reinforce the tools for civic participation by providing them with a clearer legal status and expanding opportunities for citizens to influence local affairs. Special attention is paid to the analysis of potential challenges associated with the introduction of these forms, such as the risks of formalism, insufficient capacity of local self-government bodies and the public, and the need to ensure that the results of participation have a real impact on decision-making. It is argued that the timely adoption of Law No. 3703-IX, considering the ongoing reforms and future tasks of post-war recovery, reflects a strategic vision of the role of enhanced citizen involvement in strengthening local self-government. In conclusion, the author offers specific recommendations , particularly regarding the development at the national level of model regulations for the participatory budget, CABs, and public evaluation to assist local councils , as well as amending the Budget Code of Ukraine to ensure clear financing for winning projects of the participatory budget.