Public administration mechanisms for the development of creative clusters in the European Union: lessons for Ukraine

This article explores the development of creative clusters in Ukraine through the lens of public governance and the application of European Union policy experience and best practices. The study aims to deepen theoretical understanding and provide practical recommendations for the effective formation and support of creative clusters in the context of Ukraine's European integration. The research highlights key trends in the EU’s cluster policy, emphasizing the strategic role of creative and cultural industries (CCIs) in fostering economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural identity. Particular attention is paid to the institutional frameworks, legal regulation, and financial mechanisms in the EU that enable the development of creative clusters. The study analyzes the role of “euroclusters” and recent meta-cluster initiatives, which demonstrate successful transnational and interregional cooperation. It also examines the functioning of clusters in Central and Eastern European countries with development trajectories similar to Ukraine. Findings show that regional strategies, active cluster policies, and ecosystem-based approaches contribute significantly to balanced regional development and economic activation of rural areas. Despite emerging grassroots initiatives and policy declarations in Ukraine, state-level support for cluster development remains limited. The article concludes with a set of recommendations for incorporating EU practices into Ukrainian public policy, underlining the importance of aligning national and regional strategies with EU programs such as Creative Europe, Horizon Europe, and Digital Europe. Further research is needed on adapting EU policies to the Ukrainian context and assessing their impact on human capital and regional equity.