
Hennadii Zubko: We would like to reach the maximum number of united communities before local elections in 2020
"For the
third consecutive year we do
our utmost to simplify the
process of voluntary association and provide additional
powers, which will strengthen the development of united territorial
communities. We use all the
instruments to make this process
voluntary. But in case we see
this process is being hampered
either because of the influence
of political groups, or because
of the lack
of a leader, or simply because
of the unwillingness
of the local
leader to join the process
of amalgamation, we will take
an administrative decision", stated Vice Prime Minister,
Minister of Regional Development, Construction, Housing and Utilities of
Ukraine Hennadii Zubko in an
interview with the European Truth
e-magazine.
According to the Vice Prime Minister,
Ukraine had already had a negative
experience while trying to make
a decision administratively,
without giving authority, without transferring resources on the ground.
"This year
is of paramount
importance in terms of using
all chances, opportunities and tools. At present
voluntary process is essential, but
this process cannot be endless.
Before the 2020 local elections, we would like
to reach the maximum number
of united communities. The only question is
when it will
be necessary to unite compulsorily
the remaining communities either after 2020 or before
2020 year. Because it’s impossible when one amalgamated
community has resources, powers and responsibilities, and the neighboring
one is being
financed from the regional administration", Hennadii Zubko emphasized.
According to Georg
Milbradt, Special Envoy of the
Government of Germany on reforming
Ukraine in the spheres of
governance and decentralization, Ukraine has all chances
to reach 80-90% indicator of voluntary
community association.
"Of course,
it will not
be possible to reach 100% and
to close all the "holes" on the map.
But it is
essential to minimize the number
of problem areas. If the
remaining number of territories will be 5% or
10% it is not too difficult
to complete this reform in
one fell swoop. But if
the "white spots" make up 50% - we will
encounter resistance, thereby the reform
will not succeed," Georg Milbradt underscored.