THE PROCEDURE OF CONDUCTING PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS IN UKRAINE AND EU COUNTRIES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the procedure for conducting public consultations in Ukraine, comparing it with the practices of European Union countries. Significant attention is given to the detailed study of the legal foundations and institutional mechanisms regulating this process. The authors highlight the importance of public involvement in policy formation, emphasizing the necessity of equal access to consultations for all segments of the population, including marginalized groups. The article also focuses on the role of digital technologies in the public consultation process, shedding light on both the opportunities and challenges associated with their use. A particular emphasis is placed on the need to balance innovation with the protection of privacy and data security. Various approaches to public consultations used in Europe are presented, along with a comparative analysis of their effectiveness. Based on this analysis, comprehensive recommendations are provided for improving the procedures of public consultations in Ukraine. It is underscored that the successful implementation of these practices could significantly enhance the quality and legitimacy of political decisions in the country, as well as contribute to the strengthening of democratic processes and governmental transparency In the concluding remarks, the article emphasizes that the implementation of effective public consultation practices in Ukraine requires a comprehensive approach, which includes not only legal and institutional reforms but also cultural changes in the perception of citizen participation in the political process. This entails compliance with international standards and the engagement of a wide spectrum of social groups to ensure inclusivity and representation in the decision-making process. Based on the research, the article proposes ways to integrate the best practices of the EU into the Ukrainian context, and points out the necessity for further analysis and improvement of these procedures in the constantly changing social and political environment.