GERMAN EXPERIENCE OF ENGAGING CITIZENS IN MANAGEMENT OF A LOCAL COMMUNITY

Abstract

Purpose. To study experience of attraction and forms of citizens’ participation in local community management in conditions of state facilitation and consideration of the subsidiarity principle by the example of Germany. Methodology and methods: retrospective analysis of historic prerequisites for development of the policy of citizens’ involvement in local government in Germany, analysis of international documents regarding issues of realization of the state policy concerning contribution to citizens’ involvement in local government, analysis of statistical data of participation of public organizations and citizens’ communities in self-government. Results. Based on a systematic approach using principles of concernment and subsidiarity, the author researched the trends contributing to the problem solving connected with citizens’ participation in local self-government on a federal level. The author substantiated the need of coordination of this issue on the executive level of power on the part of the federal government and executive power bodies of the federal lands of Germany; identifi ed various forms of citizens’ involvement in local government. In the article, the author reveals directions of the state policy directions for support and development of the system of citizens’ involvement in local government. Scientifi c novelty: the author researches the role of the state as an institute contributing the activity of public organizations, reveals the necessity of problem solving concerning citizens’ involvement in public matters on the federal level, characterizes experience and specifi city of citizens’ involvement in local society management in Germany.