Publication date: 11.06.2024
Legal Status of Starostas in Amalgamated Territorial Communities
Introduction
Amalgamated territorial communities (ATCs) in Ukraine have become an important element of decentralization of power aimed at improving the efficiency of local government. One of the key positions in an ATC is the starosta, a representative of the interests of residents of individual settlements that make up the community. The current legal status of starostas defines their powers, duties and mechanisms of interaction with other local self-government bodies. In this article, we will analyze the legal aspects of starostas' functioning in ATCs, their role in community development, and the main challenges they face.
Legal and regulatory framework
The legal status of starostas is determined by a number of legal acts of Ukraine:
The Constitution of Ukraine:
- It guarantees the right to local self-government and the participation of citizens in the management of local affairs.
The Law of Ukraine "On Local Self-Government in Ukraine":
- Defines the general principles of organization and operation of local self-government, including the status of starostas.
The Law of Ukraine "On Voluntary Amalgamation of Territorial Communities":
- Regulates the process of ATC formation and determines the place of starostas in the management system.
The Law of Ukraine "On Service in Local Self-Government Bodies":
- Establishes requirements for local government officials, including starostas.
Powers and duties of starostas
Starostas play an important role in the functioning of ATCs, exercising the following main powers and responsibilities:
Representing the interests of residents:
- Starostas represent the interests of residents of settlements before the ATC authorities, help solve local problems and involve the community in decision-making.
Monitoring and control:
- They monitor the state of infrastructure, utilities and other aspects of community life, provide reports and suggestions for improvement.
Interaction with local authorities:
- Starostas take part in meetings of local councils, commissions and other bodies, and facilitate coordination between different levels of government.
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Organization of public events:
- Promote the organization and holding of community events aimed at developing local culture, education and sports.
Social protection:
- They help solve social issues, provide support to vulnerable categories of the population, and facilitate the implementation of social programs.
Challenges and prospects
The position of starosta in an ATC faces a number of challenges:
Financial constraints:
- Insufficient funding may limit the ability of starostas to implement local initiatives and projects.
Lack of legal awareness:
- Not all starostas have sufficient legal awareness and experience to perform their duties effectively.
Lack of clear mechanisms of interaction:
- Sometimes there are difficulties in the interaction of starostas with other local self-government bodies due to the lack of clearly defined procedures.
