The decentralization reform launched in 2014 that envisages transfer of financial resources and administrative powers to the regions is entering the second stage. That’s why it is impossible to halt the reform by hasty decisions, Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman stated during a meeting with the leadership of the united territorial communities of Rivne region.
“Decentralization yielded good results. We need to talk about prospects and challenges for 2019-2020. The first stage of decentralization was successful. Every resident of the united territorial community can compare the state of play before and after decentralization. It was important for me to transfer not only funds but also opportunities. When opportunities begin to yield result then we have growth. At the same time, today the reform is facing threats. It can be halted quickly – 226 votes are enough in order to approve the decision not good for the local self-government. That’s alarming. We have time to launch the second stage of decentralization. It is necessary to initiate amendments to the Constitution. If we do not continue decentralization, the reform will be blocked,” the prime minister stressed.
At present, 31 communities that have direct relations with the state budget have been formed. According to the community plan, there should be 66 communities that will cover 100% of the region and 100% of the region’s population. (Ukrinform/Business World Magazine)