The law on public consultations, officially known as legislative initiative No. 4254, was approved in its second reading with the support of 282 deputies. This move marks a substantial step towards greater transparency and citizen involvement in governmental decision-making processes.
Key Provisions of the Law
The newly adopted law outlines the following essential elements and procedures for conducting public consultations:
Scope and Applicability:
- All executive power bodies and local self-government bodies are mandated to carry out public consultations.
Principles of Public Consultations:
- Public consultations are to be conducted based on clearly defined principles to ensure inclusivity and transparency during the formulation and implementation of policies.
Forms of Public Consultations:
- The law introduces various forms of public consultations, including electronic consultations, public discussions, and targeted consultations, to accommodate different needs and contexts.
Single Online Platform:
- To facilitate ease of access and participation, a unified online platform for consultations will be created, enabling citizens to engage with government processes more conveniently.
Analysis and Reporting:
- Every proposal submitted during the consultations must be thoroughly analyzed by the relevant authority. A comprehensive and public report summarizing the outcomes of the consultations is required to be prepared and published.
Participation of Interested Parties:
- The law mandates the inclusion of a broad range of stakeholders in the consultation process, ensuring that diverse perspectives and interests are considered.
Implementation Timeline
The law is set to be implemented after the conclusion of the ongoing full-scale war, indicating a forward-looking approach to restoring and enhancing governance practices in Ukraine.
Expected Benefits
The adoption of this law is anticipated to:
Enhance Public Governance:
- By ensuring the active participation of citizens in governance, the law aims to improve the quality and legitimacy of government decisions.
Promote People's Rule:
- It seeks to foster a democratic culture where citizens have a direct influence on public administration and policy-making.
Increase Legitimacy of Government Decisions:
- By incorporating public feedback, the decisions made by authorities are expected to reflect the true interests and needs of the populace.
Strengthen Citizen Engagement:
- The law provides a structured mechanism for citizens to voice their opinions and contribute to the decision-making process, thereby strengthening civic engagement and trust in government institutions.
Official Statements
Olena Shulyak, head of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on the Organization of State Power, Local Self-Government, Regional Development and Urban Planning, and head of the Servant of the People party, announced the adoption of the law on her Telegram channel. She emphasized the law's importance in ensuring the participation of a wide range of stakeholders and enhancing the overall quality of public administration in Ukraine.
Conclusion
The passing of the law on public consultations represents a significant milestone in Ukraine's efforts to modernize its governance framework and enhance citizen participation. As the country continues to navigate through challenging times, this law is a testament to its commitment to democratic principles and inclusive governance.
