EXPERIENCE OF DECENTRALIZATION REFORM IN TERNOPIL REGION

Abstract

The decentralization reform in the Ternopil region has made significant progress in local governance. The creation of united territorial communities optimized administration and gave communities greater control over budgets.
This financial autonomy was reflected in a more than fourfold increase in revenues to local budgets since 2014.
Communities used these resources to address local needs such as infrastructure improvements (road repairs, street lighting) and improved service delivery through centralized service delivery centers. In addition, the reform optimized administrative structures, reduced bureaucracy by reducing the staff of district administrations and increasing local self government specialists. However, problems remain. Negative population growth and migration outflow, especially in rural areas, threaten the sustainability of these communities. Preservation of cultural institutions and attraction of young specialists are permanent problems that require urgent attention. In general, decentralization in Ternopil region has expanded the opportunities of communities, but it faces problems. Addressing depopulation, sustaining cultural life and attracting young talent are key to ensuring the long-term success of these reforms.