In his commentary for the "Suspilne. Studio" program, UCIPR expert Maksym Lukinyuk explained how the Law of Ukraine No. 3703-IX adopted by the Parliament will help strengthen local democracy and involve residents in the decision-making process at the community level.
"It is impossible to hold local elections during martial law, but the law opens up new ways to engage citizens. This will allow us to reaffirm the legitimacy of local authorities and engage hromadas in rebuilding the country," Lukinyuk said.
The law provides for the introduction of new opportunities to involve residents in decision-making at the community level. Thus, they will be able to participate in public consultations and public hearings and will be involved in budget planning.
The law also supports the integration of internally displaced persons and youth into community life and creates additional opportunities for civil society organizations to cooperate with the authorities.
Supported by a constitutional majority of MPs, this law is the first one in 27 years to be systematically aimed at developing local democracy. That is why it is so important that this document comes into force as soon as possible.
We invite you to see the full commentary here.
As a reminder, more than 160 civil society organizations appealed to the President of Ukraine to sign Law No. 3703-IX, "On Democracy at the Local Government Level."
The appeal was initiated by the team of the Public Holding "GROUP OF INFLUENCE" and the Ukrainian Center for Independent Political Research within the framework of the Sectoral Support Initiative for Civil Society, implemented by ISAR Ednannia in consortium with UCIPR and the Center for Democracy and Rule of Law, thanks to the generous support of the American people provided through the United States Agency for International Development USAID Ukraine - USAID Ukraine.