Gerasymiuk K. Optimization of territorial and administration system in Ukraine in the context of European experience

The theoretical and methodological bases of territorial-administrative systems are analyzed which are defined as definite territories within which any type of public authority is formed and functions. It is proved that the territorial-administrative system has a complex structure and includes territorial division that is the system of territorial units; territorial system that is the system of organization of public authorities at the territorial level; territorial process that is the procedures of the territorial division and territorial structure change. The term "optimization of territorial-administrative system" is given grounds for and is defined as a specific direction and a process of public policy implementation. Its aim is the increase of effectiveness in already existing system or that one which is in the process of formation of territorial units and of an appropriate system of public authority. The term "European standards of territorial-administrative system organization" is defined which is understood, first, as political and legal documents adopted at the European level, and second, as a model of a definite country acknowledged at the expert level as a standard and sample one. The practise and experience of European countries in territorial-administrative system optimization is researched. The analysis of the shortcomings and contradictions of the territorial-administrative system in Ukraine is provided. The main types and alternatives of territorial-administrative system in Ukraine are defined on the basis of national political and legal documents' analysis. It is grounded that the strategy of deep and gradual changes mostly responds the main goals and basic principles of territorial-administrative system reformation in Ukraine. The optimal model of territorial management system in Ukraine, as well as the main mechanisms and instruments for its implementation is formed. As part of the territorial division the creation of new types of territorial units of the regional, sub-regional, local levels, as well as the introduction of optional territorial units is justified. Regarding the territorial structure, the model means the transfer of administrative mechanisms from the institute of public authorities to the institute of local self-government through it's acknowledgement at each level of territorial division. Within the territorial process the motivation instruments are offered as well as citizens' involvement at the stages of conceptual bases of reform's development, decision-making, reform's realization, it's monitoring and evaluation.