Authors:
Andrii Zabolotny, Expert, “Governance: Policy-Making, Accountability, Civil Service” area, CPLR
Oleksandr Saienko, Co-coordinator, “Governance: Policy-Making, Accountability, Civil Service” area, CPLR
Ihor Koliushko, Chairman of the Board, CPLR
Mariia Holubytska, Analyst, UCEP
Mykola Slipchenko, Expert, “Governance: Policy-Making, Accountability, Civil Service” area, CPLR
Reviewers:
Dmytro Naumenko, Senior Analyst, UCEP
Liubov Akulenko Executive Director, UCEP
This study examines the coordination of public governance reform in Ukraine and its importance for accession to the European Union. The authors explore how to ensure coordinated action by state institutions, a clear division of responsibilities, and the implementation of decisions needed to advance reform amid war and European integration.
The study reviews Ukraine’s existing reform coordination system, the mandates of the institutions involved, and the challenges hindering implementation. Particular attention is paid to political leadership, the work of the Coordination Council for Public Administration Reform, and the role of the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. The analysis draws on Ukrainian legislation, recommendations from the European Commission and SIGMA/OECD, and expert interviews.
A separate section examines the experience of four EU candidate countries: Serbia, North Macedonia, Moldova, and Montenegro. Comparing their coordination models with Ukrainian practice helps identify which mechanisms support reform implementation and why even formally well-developed structures do not always deliver the expected results.
Based on this analysis, the authors examine three possible reform coordination models for Ukraine and set out the rationale for the recommended approach: combining political leadership at government level with permanent administrative support within the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers. The study proposes practical steps to strengthen accountability for reform, improve interinstitutional cooperation, and enhance monitoring and follow-up on decisions.
The study emphasises that effective coordination requires a sustained connection between political decisions, day-to-day administrative work, and the assessment of results. This approach should strengthen Ukrainian institutions’ capacity to implement reforms and fulfil the country’s commitments on the path to EU membership.
A condensed version is also available as a policy brief.
