Theoretical foundations and historical development of democratic civilian control over the security and defense sector

The article examines the historiographies of the creation of civilian control over the security and defense sector. Against the background of a chronological generalization of historical facts and events, the process of the emergence of civilian control over the defense and national security of the Ukrainian state is investigated and a comparison is made with the mechanisms for creating control in European countries. The theoretical foundations of democratic civilian control over the security and defense sector are to ensure democracy and civilian control over the military forces. The main principle is the division of power between military and civilian structures in order to prevent military coups and ensure the effective implementation of the country’s defense functions. This approach helps to limit the power of military leaders and increases responsibility for their actions before citizens. The legal basis for democratic civilian oversight includes legislative acts that guarantee the public’s right to access information, participate in decision-making, and monitor the implementation of laws. Legislation also defines procedures and tools to ensure effective civilian oversight. In particular, important legal principles for civilian oversight include the right to freedom of expression, the right to participate in public debate and consultation, and the right to appeal to the courts in case of violations. Civilian oversight is an important mechanism for ensuring the accountability of authorities and increasing public trust in state institutions. It contributes to building an open and democratic society, where every citizen has the opportunity to participate in making important decisions. For almost a year now, Ukraine has been undergoing a full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as the RF) on the territory of our country, so democratic civilian control over the Armed Forces of Ukraine (hereinafter referred to as the AFU) under martial law is of particular importance, because the lack of democratic and civilian control is one of the cornerstones of weakness and disorder in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. At the same time, strengthening control in Ukraine is one of the reasons for better organization, training, combat readiness and management in the AFU, despite all the shortcomings and challenges. The growing nature of real and potential threats to the vital interests of Ukraine requires all state structures to develop a comprehensive mechanism for modernizing state security, which involves cooperation between all branches of government, civil society and international organizations.