CIVIC PARTICIPATION IN DECISIONMAKING PROCESSES AND PUBLIC POLICY FORMATION AT THE LOCAL LEVEL

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of citizen participation in decision-making processes and the formation of state policy at the local level in Ukraine. In conditions of active decentralization, when significant powers and financial resources are transferred to localities, it is at the local level that key decisions on community development and the use of budget funds are made. Without citizen involvement, these decisions may be ineffective or may not take into account the real needs and interests of the population. Involving local residents is also critical to increasing the effectiveness of policies. Thanks to their unique knowledge of the needs and problems of the community, local governments can develop more relevant, targeted and effective policies. Policies formed on the basis of realitytested data ensure the accuracy and targeting of programs, minimizing the risk of inefficient use of resources. Active citizen participation is a powerful catalyst for increasing transparency and accountability of government bodies. It turns government activities into an open dialogue, where each stage of decision-making is available for public control. This acts as a preventive mechanism, reducing the risk of corruption, as officials are aware of the public’s close attention. The mechanism of direct control through the opportunity to ask questions and demand explanations significantly increases the level of trust between the authorities and the community. Involving citizens in governance is the foundation for the development of a deep democratic culture. This develops critical thinking skills, the ability to express one’s opinion, negotiate and seek compromises, which are the basis of a healthy civil society. Working together to solve community problems contributes to social cohesion, uniting people, strengthening social ties and forming an active and responsible civic position. Despite significant advantages, there are challenges, such as passivity of the population, insufficient awareness, lack of effective engagement mechanisms and insufficient readiness of local authorities for a full-fledged dialogue. Therefore, further improvement of legislation, dissemination of best practices, training and awareness-raising are key to realizing the potential of civic participation. This is especially relevant in the context of Ukraine’s integration into the European Union, which requires compliance with European standards of democracy and good governance.