LOCAL GOVERNMENT'S INVOLVEMENT IN LAND LEGAL RELATIONS: THE EXPERIENCE OF EU COUNTRIES

Abstract

Purpose. The article is devoted to the analysis of the experience of participation of local communities and their representative bodies in the regulation of land relations in foreign countries, in particular Latvia, Austria and Sweden, in the context of searching for relevant practices for improving local governance in Ukraine. The study does not aim to criticize the national system, but instead focuses on studying potentially useful approaches that can be adapted taking into account Ukrainian realities. The relevance of the study is due to the need to harmonize Ukrainian land legislation with European standards of decentralized governance and citizen participation in decision-making at the local level.Methods. A combination of general scientific and special legal methods was applied, in particular analysis, comparison, formal legal and systemic approach. The study is based on a comparative analysis of the legal models of Latvia, Austria and Sweden, which demonstrate different understandings of the powers of local government bodies to make decisions in the field of land use. Particular attention is paid to legislative mechanisms for ensuring community participation, procedural transparency and control, as well as the institutional role of municipalities in the implementation of land management functions.Results. It was established that in EU countries, community participation in the regulation of land relations is ensured through effective mechanisms of consultative democracy, transparency of procedures and institutional support of municipalities. Considerable attention is paid to preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring balanced development of territories. The study of such practices makes it possible to formulate guidelines for adapting Ukrainian land legislation to European requirements. The general patterns of interaction between localgovernments and citizens that contribute to more efficient use of land resources are also outlined.Conclusions. The analyzed practices of European countries deserve attention as examples of effective organization of community participation in the field of land management. At the same time, it should be emphasized that Ukraine also has developed legal instruments that can be successfully implemented provided that there is consistent regulatory and institutional support. Borrowing foreign experience requires a balanced approach, taking into account the national context, legal traditions, and the level of development of local self-government. It is worth not only focusing on Western models, but also developing our own legal culture, taking into account modern challenges and needs of communities.