STRENGTHENING LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT TO PROMOTE SOCIAL RIGHTS: CHALLENGES AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The present article explores the role of local self-government in promoting social rights in Ukraine. The study considers the challenges and opportunities of sustainable development within the context of incomplete decentralisation reforms and the ongoing war that began in 2022. The present study aims to evaluate the influence of legal, institutional and economic frameworks on the ability of local authorities to deliver social services and secure social rights during times of crisis. The research employs qualitative methods, including the analysis of Ukrainian legislation, public finance data and case studies from several communities. Since 2014, decentralisation has been shown to empower local authorities, enhancing service delivery and citizen engagement. However, the war has precipitated a series of unprecedented pressures, engendering widespread social benefits disruption and exposing obsolescent legislation. Furthermore, it has imposed considerable limitations on the fiscal autonomy of numerous local authorities. Participatory budgeting practices, which are vital for encouraging civic engagement, have declined sharply during the conflict. Notwithstanding the aforementioned challenges, local authorities have demonstrated economic resilience by redistributing resources and maintaining the provision of essential social services, particularly for vulnerable groups such as veterans and families affected by the war. The findings emphasise the urgent need to update social protection laws to reflect current realities. The text highlights the discrepancies between the legal guarantees provided and the practical implementation of social rights, emphasising the necessity for addressing these issues. It is imperative to acknowledge the significance of stable revenue streams for local authorities and the revitalisation of participatory governance mechanisms in Ukraine's post-war recovery process. The alignment of reforms with the Sustainable Development Goals is a key factor in the development of democratic and accountable hromadas that are economically strong. This study illuminates the potential of local self-government to promote human rights and social welfare, even during periods of crisis. The present volume provides practical insights to policymakers and practitioners involved in decentralisation and social development initiatives in Ukraine and similar contexts.