Gavinskiy R. О., PhD student at the Department of Public Governance, Institute of Administration, Public Management, and Professional Development, Lviv Polytechnic National University, Lviv, Ukraine.

ORCID ID: 0009-0002-0034-8413
e-mail: ruslan4ik1990@i.ua

Basic Values of Public Governance in Ukraine

Abstract. Introduction.  Values play a key role in shaping public governance, setting strategic priorities, and ensuring the effectiveness of state institutions. In Ukraine, the evolution of values as a foundation for governance reflects the country’s historical, political, and cultural transformations. From the time of Kyivan Rus to the present, national values such as democracy, sovereignty, social cohesion, and the rule of law have provided the foundation for statehood and public administration. However, modern challenges such as war, globalization, and European integration require a comprehensive reassessment and adaptation of these values to meet the needs of contemporary governance. This study examines the influence of values on public governance in Ukraine and mechanisms for their integration into the state management system to ensure sustainable development and effective governance.

Purpose. The aim of this research is to analyze the role of values as a basis of public governance in Ukraine, to assess their evolution in historical retrospect, and to examine their impact on modern governance priorities. In addition, the study seeks to propose mechanisms for integrating national values into the state management system, taking into account European integration and the challenges of war. Achieving these goals will contribute to the understanding of how values can strengthen democratic institutions, improve transparency, and foster social cohesion in public governance.

Results. The article focuses on the modern values of public governance in Ukraine, enshrined in the Constitution and legislation. European integration and the signing of the Association Agreement with the EU have acted as a catalyst for reforms in public administration aimed at alignment with European standards. The implementation of principles such as transparency, accountability and the rule of law has improved the effectiveness of public administration and increased citizens’ trust in government. Digital technologies, in particular e-governance, play an important role in these processes by facilitating citizens’ access to information and increasing their participation in decision-making. The study highlights the importance of involving civil society in public governance processes to ensure sustainable state development and effective crisis response. Decentralization of power and empowerment of local communities are identified as key tools to support democratic processes. These approaches not only increase the efficiency of governance, but also promote social cohesion and resilience in times of national crisis.

Conclusions. The study shows that values are the foundation of public governance in Ukraine, defining strategic priorities and ensuring the effectiveness of state management. Historical and modern values, including democracy, sovereignty, the rule of law, and transparency, have become key principles that strengthen democratic institutions. The integration of European standards has reinforced these values and contributed to transparency and accountability. In the context of modern challenges, the research highlights the need to adapt governance values to ensure resilience and sustainable development. Mechanisms such as digital governance, decentralization and citizen participation are essential to harmonize national values with modern governance practices. Future research should focus on the integration of innovative technologies and the role of civic engagement in strengthening public governance institutions. 

Keywords: public governance; values; democracy; transparency; European integration; social cohesion; resilience.

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