THE ROLE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE INSTITUTE OF HEADMAN IN THE SYSTEM OF LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT IN UKRAINE
Authors: Reznik O. , Bondarenko O. ,   Sumy State University,   Sumy State University
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to an important and topical topic – the study of the role and significance of the institution of the eldership in the system of local self-government bodies. The article emphasizes the fact that local representative democracy contributes to the development of public self-government. Citizens can actively participate in decision-making, make proposals and initiate projects that affect their environment. This contributes to the strengthening of public organizations, the development of local initiatives and the involvement of various social groups in local governance processes. The Institute of Elders promotes stability and social harmony at the local level. The headman plays the role of a mediator and contributes to the resolution of conflict situations, intergroup and interpersonal problems in the community. They contribute to the maintenance of social interaction, the settlement of conflicts, and contribute to the strengthening of trust between citizens. The Institute of Elders, as an institution of local self-government, exists in many countries of the world. Although the name and functions may vary from country to country, the general idea is that the headman is an elected official who represents and acts in the interests of his local community. The mayor promotes the mobilization and unification of the community around common goals and projects. They involve residents to participate in community development, organization of events and cooperation with other organizations and institutions. The Starost Institute, like any institute, has its positive and negative features. It is important to balance the positive and negative aspects of the institution of elders to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with the needs of the community. It has been established that the role and significance of the elder for the local community in Ukraine is important and multifaceted. The role and significance of the elder for the local community in Ukraine is important and multifaceted. Here are some aspects of their role: Representation of the community: The mayor acts as a representative of the community before local self-government bodies, state bodies and other structures. They express the interests, opinions and needs of the community and help solve their problems. Mobilization and cooperation: The mayor promote the mobilization and unification of the community around common goals and projects. They involve residents to participate in community development, organization of events and cooperation with other organizations and institutions. Development of initiatives and self-sufficiency: The mayor promotes the development of citizens’ initiatives, the search for resources and opportunities for the development of the community. They contribute to the creation of conditions for community self-sufficiency and active participation of citizens in decision-making. Maintaining order and resolving conflicts: The mayor is responsible for maintaining public order, resolving conflicts, and promoting harmonious relations in the community. They can help resolve disputes and promote dialogue between citizens. Implementation of projects and programs: The mayor helps to implement projects and programs aimed at the development and improvement of community life. They coordinate the work of the involved resources, monitor the performance. Key words: local representative democracy, local self-government bodies, headman, community representation, corruption.