Decentralization is entering a new stage, this process is irreversible, says Prime Minister

The decentralization reform launched in 2014 that envisages transfer of  financial resources and administrative powers to the regions is entering the second stage, namely the stage of effective use of new opportunities for the regions. That is why it is impossible to halt the reform by  hasty decisions.Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman made this statement during a meeting with the leadership of the consolidated communities of Rivne region. At present, 31 communities that have direct relations with the state budget were formed. According to the community plan there should be formed another 66 communities that will cover 100% of the region and 100% of the region's population.

"Decentralization yielded good results. We need to talk about prospects and challenges for 2019-2020. The first stage of decentralization was successful. Every resident of consolidated community can compare the state of play before and after decentralization. It was important for me to transfer not only  funds but also opportunities. When opportunities begin to yield result then we have growth increase. At the same time today the reform is facing threats. It can be halted quickly - 226 votes of MPs are enough in order to approve the decision not good for the local self-government. That's alarming. We have time to launch the second stage of the decentralization. It is necessary to initiate amendments to the Constitution. If we do not go further regarding decentralization, the reform will be blocked", the Head of Government underscored.