Methodological Recommendations for Developing Charters of Communities. This document is intended to help communities update or develop their charters from scratch, in line with the provisions of the updated Law of Ukraine ‘On Local Self-Government in Ukraine’ – particularly those relating to the introduction of modern forms of local democracy.

A working group under the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine prepared the methodological recommendations, with the participation of experts from the Ukrainian Independent Centre for Political Research. This was part of a project implemented with the support of the International Renaissance Foundation.

This practical ‘toolkit’ document provides councils with ready-made formulations, structures and algorithms to help them implement the provisions of Law No. 3703-IX and amendments to the Law ‘On Local Self-Government’ more quickly and efficiently. The recommendations are designed for different types of community (urban, rural and settlement) and take into account the specific features of occupied and frontline territories. They also contain an expanded section for military administrations.

During the presentation, participants emphasised the importance of the Charter in defining community development.

‘Just because the war is ongoing does not mean that communities where military administrations have been established should be excluded from the process. It is a matter of adapting to the challenges of wartime. Residents of frontline territories also have civil rights, and it is important that they have the tools to influence the authorities,’ emphasised Oleksii Riabykin, Deputy Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine.

Oleksandr Korniienko, First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, noted:
‘Every community, even the smallest, should have its own “mini-constitution” that establishes its principles according to Ukrainian legislation. The charter is an important step towards European integration because, without clear rules, we cannot participate in European programmes and funding.’

Mykola Rubchak, Director of the Multilevel Governance Department of the Ministry for Development, added:
‘The charter is not only a regulatory document, but also a tool for establishing the communityєs identity. It demonstrates the unique characteristics that distinguish one community from another, ensuring its recognition both within Ukraine and on the international stage.’

Experience of communities

Representatives of communities with experience of developing their charters shared their successes. Oksana Pitsyk, Head of the Smidyn community, for example, explained how engaging residents in discussions about the charter had helped create transparent interaction mechanisms. Andrii Deliatynchuk, Head of the Yasinia community, emphasised that having a charter is mandatory for participating in international programmes and receiving funding.

Access to materials

The methodological recommendations have already been published on the Ministry for Development website and can be downloaded via QR codes. These recommendations include sample charters, suggestions for amending local council regulations and advice on creating accessible information materials for disabled people.

Pursuant to current legislation, communities must approve their charters by the end of 2026.