THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL BASES OF URBAN PUBLIC TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT

The article examines the theoretical and methodological foundations of urban public transport management in the context of modern economic and social challenges. Public transport is defined as a key element of urban infrastructure that ensures population mobility, economic activity, and the competitiveness of cities. Theoretical approaches to management are analyzed, including systemic, socio-economic, and environmental ones. A methodology for assessing the efficiency of transport systems based on economic and social indicators, including mathematical models, is proposed. Particular attention is paid to Ukrainian realities, characterized by outdated rolling stock, insufficient funding, and limited use of digital technologies. A comparative analysis of international experience (Germany, France, Poland, Japan, South Korea) demonstrates the importance of integrated management, diversification of funding sources, digitalization, and prioritization of environmentally friendly transport. Based on the research, recommendations for Ukraine are proposed: creation of regional transport unions, introduction of targeted transport taxes, attraction of international grants and loans, development of public-private partnerships, management digitalization, and comprehensive greening of transport. It is concluded that effective management of urban public transport is a key condition for sustainable urban development and socio-economic stability of the state.