PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION OF SETTLEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE CONTEXT OF DECENTRALISATION: LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND ECONOMIC INSTRUMENTS FOR EFFICIENCY

Abstract

The decentralisation of public administration in Ukraine plays a pivotal role in the development and management of settlement infrastructure. However, the war and financial constraints have significantly impeded the capacity of local authorities to effectively implement infrastructure projects. Ensuring sustainable infrastructure development necessitates a multifaceted approach encompassing legal, economic and human rights-based components. This study aims to analyse the legal foundations and economic instruments that influence the public administration of settlement infrastructure in Ukraine under decentralisation, with a particular emphasis on financial sustainability and international support mechanisms. The research is founded upon a thorough legal and economic analysis, incorporating a review of Ukrainian legislation and international standards, particularly those of the Council of Europe. The study explores the function of local self-government in the public administration of settlement infrastructure, the challenges posed by martial law, and the strategies employed to surmount financial limitations. The findings indicate that international financial assistance, municipal partnerships and cross-border co-operation have become essential to sustain settlement infrastructure projects. The study highlights that despite decentralisation reforms, financial dependence on external funding remains a major challenge. The findings of the study provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners by identifying effective economic strategies and legal mechanisms to enhance the resilience of Ukraine's settlement infrastructure. The key recommendations of the study are as follows: first, to strengthen international co-operation; second, to increase financial autonomy at the local level; and third, to integrate human rights-based approaches into infrastructure governance. The research contributes to the broader discourse on decentralisation and sustainable infrastructure management, and offers practical solutions for post-war reconstruction and long-term development in Ukraine.