Sylenko M. Government regulation of depressed territories economic development of Ukraine in the context of decentralization

The thesis is devoted to theoretical substantiation and development of methodical steps for improvement of government regulation of territories' economic development to overcome their depressed status. This paper presents and generalizes the theoretical principles clarifying the meaning of terms "depressed region" and "underdeveloped territory," grounds the necessity of imbalances smoothing in social and economic development of regions. The paper presents an approach to the determination of depressed territories by rating of regions (districts) on the basis of indicators characterizing the socio-economic situation and budgetary security. Author analyses the socio-economic situation in depressed territories, identifies particularities and trends of their development. The thesis provides the model of sustainable development that includes measures for the central and local governments to overcome imbalances of regional development. Author presents new budget allocation approach based on distribution formula that takes into consideration population of the region (district) and depression coefficient. The paper proposes to improve the structure and basic aspects of writing and implementation of socio-economic development programs of regions and districts. It also elaborates proposals for harmonization of decentralization reforms in Ukraine and overcoming territories depressed status.