The dissertation presents a consistent solution of the actual scientific problem concerning the theoretical and methodological substantiation of the participation of local authorities in the formation and implementation of state policy in modern conditions. The deligatory mechanism of participation of local authorities in the formation and implementation of state policy based on the establishment of more trusting, partnerships between local authorities and members of local communities is grounded; the transformation of local communities themselves into actors in shaping and implementing state policy; the gradual transformation of relations between local and central authorities, their building on the basis of subsidiarity and mutually beneficial cooperation (as opposed to existing approaches, local authorities within the framework of the proposed mechanism operate within the cycle of formation and implementation of both state and local policies, and therefore delibrations serve a tool for harmonizing the interests of actors at all levels of public administration). The directions and measures aimed at increasing the level of participation of local authorities in the formation and implementation of state policy in Ukraine are identified: implementation of the concept of multilevel governance in public administration; introduction of new approaches to the interaction of local and central authorities in the field of state policy formulation and implementation, based on the model of relations between the three types of actors (topographers, cost lawyers and guardians of expenses) with emphasis on the development of the topographies; Consolidation of local, central authorities and the public in the field of state policy formulation and implementation, as one of the types of partnership between these actors; overcoming the asymmetry of state and local policies, which, in turn, is a prerequisite for implementing the concept of multi-level governance. It is proved that in its unity the political and legal basis of consolidation form the actual sphere of consolidation relations of the subjects of public administration of a certain administrative-territorial unit. Accordingly, the decision of the task of improving the system of management of the process of consolidation of public authorities requires the development and implementation of not separate, often unsystematic, inconsistent, inadequately grounded measures, and a deeply thought-out, scientifically sound system of political and legal acts. Consequently, together with the consolidation of central and local authorities, it is necessary to consolidate them with citizens, the society, which, among other things, should increase the trust of citizens in the authorities of different levels, to balance the interests of the state and society. The most common form of such consolidation is the "social contract".
