STAROST INSTITUTE IN UKRAINE: CURRENT STATE AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS

Abstract

The article fully discloses the essence of the concept of the headman, and also defines the algorithm of the formation of the headman institute at the level of individual communities. The system according to which the elections of the headman are held in the territory of the corresponding settlement is highlighted, as well as the criteria that the headman must meet, the term of his authority and his main duties are considered. The key function of the institute of elders is revealed – the representation and protection of the interests of residents of peripheral settlements in the local self-government bodies of the united community. The main changes in the powers of the headman and the procedure for their election, which are defined in the Law "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Regarding the Development of the Institute of Headmen", which was adopted to improve the legal regulation of the Institute of Headmen, are reflected. The advantages and disadvantages of this Law are highlighted, the situation regarding the creation of eldership districts and the appointment of elders in 1,428 communities from all regions of Ukraine as of the beginning of 2022 is considered and analyzed. Violation of the requirements of the legislation in the process of creating starostats and approving starostas was revealed: creation of starostat districts in communities where the number of residents does not exceed 500 people; their formation after approval by the relevant council of candidates for the positions of elders; approval of elders without the formation of elder districts, etc. Proposals regarding the organization of effective work and prospects for the development of the Institute of Elders in Ukraine have been provided. For example, it is proposed to introduce an information resource – the register of starosty districts and starosts, to provide informational and methodological assistance in the application of legislation regarding the institute of starosts, to develop an official website for those communities that do not yet have one (for the publication of important and relevant news and planned events). Attention should also be paid to improving the legislative regulation of the institute of elders. Keywords: decentralization, local self-government, territorial community, starosty districts, institute of starosts.