THE IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZATION REFORM ON THE SPHERE OF SOCIAL PROTECTION OF THE POPULATION IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The system of social protection of the population serves as an indicator of the stable development of society. Therefore, in the context of decentralization reform, local authorities have acquired powers to provide social protection and have become direct providers of social services to ensure that citizens (community residents) have an adequate level of social protection in accordance with established norms and standards. The scientific publication provides a general theoretical analysis of the concept of "decentralization" and its characteristic features. It is emphasized that ensuring an adequate level of social protection for the population remains a priority for Ukraine, especially as the number of people in need of such protection is only increasing due to the ongoing war. It is noted that the centralized model of social protection involves the provision of social services through intermediary structures, while the decentralized model involves direct financing of social services, where, in the process of decentralization of budgetary powers, part of the state's functions for providing social protection is transferred to territorial communities. The conclusion is made that the Law of Ukraine "On Social Services" is a reformist law aimed at improving the system of providing social services, taking into account the real needs of community residents. Some aspects of the organization and provision of activities of the territorial community in the areas of social protection of the population and child protection are highlighted.