Decentralization of power as a priority direction of modern domestic state-building

The article examines decentralization as a fundamental democratic principle that contributes to the strengthening of statehood, the development of local self-government and ensuring the participation of citizens in decision-making. Based on the theoretical foundations and socio-philosophical concepts of John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Charles Montesquieu, as well as modern theories of public administration, the essence and evolution of the idea of decentralization are analyzed. The key principles of decentralization, such as subsidiarity, financial autonomy and accountability, which are the basis for the effective functioning of a decentralized management system, are considered. Particular attention is paid to the experience of European countries, in particular Poland, France and Spain, which have implemented successful decentralization reforms aimed at strengthening local self-government, economic development of regions and ensuring social cohesion. The article highlights the possibilities of adapting these models to improve decentralization in Ukraine, taking into account its national characteristics and challenges, in particular in the context of war and post-war reconstruction. The analysis of the Ukrainian context of decentralization demonstrates achievements, such as the creation of united territorial communities, increasing the financial capacity of local budgets, and enhancing civic participation. At the same time, problems arising in the process of implementing the reform are identified: uneven development of regions, the need to strengthen control over the use of resources, and ensuring the integration of deoccupied territories. A special emphasis is placed on the importance of decentralization for the reconstruction of Ukraine after the war. Local communities, which have already demonstrated their effectiveness in resolving crisis situations, will play a key role in restoring infrastructure, the economy, and social cohesion. The recommendations proposed in the article are aimed at improving the decentralization reform in Ukraine, in particular through the integration of European experience, strengthening accountability, and ensuring the financial autonomy of local governments. The article aims to deepen the understanding of decentralization as one of the key elements of democratic development, to determine its significance for Ukraine in the context of European integration and post-war reconstruction, and to formulate practical recommendations for increasing the effectiveness of the reform.