Decentralization reforms, in which central government agencies transfer rights and responsibilities to local institutions, are high on the agenda in many countries in the Europe and CIS region. Decentralized, streamlined and empowered local governments are better equipped to meet citizen’s expectations for public services and better livelihoods, and to ensure transparent, effective and accountable government actions.

To exchange experiences, review lessons learned and discuss challenges faced while effecting governance reforms at the subnational and local levels, the International Conference “Making Decentralization Reform Work: Opportunities and Innovations for Local Governance and Service Delivery” took place on 2-3 December 2015 in Kyiv, Ukraine. The conference, organized by the Ministry of Regional Development of Ukraine and UNDP, provided a forum for governments and experts in the region to share their own experiences related to the implementation of decentralization reforms. It also provided a platform for the Government of Ukraine to share updates related to its decentralization efforts. Finally, the event allowed UNDP and other assistance providers to highlight their expertise in supporting governments in the implementation of decentralization and local governance reform. 

You can download the report of the Conference, read our reflections on decentralization in Ukraine, and watch a short video that takes you behind the scenes.

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