Subsidiarity Principle: In Search of a Balance between Centralization and Decentralization (State Legal Aspect)

The paper formulates the definition of the principle of subsidiarity, and indicates that this principle can be used as a tool to find and maintain an optimal balanced ratio between the volumes of centralization and decentralization in the regulation and implementation of domestic relations, as well as relations between supranational associations and their member-states. At the same time, it is emphasized that the organizational and functional-target variables of the principle of subsidiarity are oriented towards strengthening the decentralization of the public administration system (public authority) by fixing the presumption of priority right (along with guarantees) of lower units to exercise powers in specific subjects of competence. In addition, when applying the principle of subsidiarity, the strengthening of decentralization is due to the need to ensure the implementation of the resources of participatory democracy, as well as the focus on pluralization of the entire public administration system. The distinction between territorial and extraterritorial forms of decentralization is substantiated, the similarities and differences between the principle of subsidiarity and devolution, deconcentration and delegation of powers are revealed. The correlation relationship between the principle of subsidiarity and the characteristics of the state-territorial structure is analyzed. The author formulates the thesis that the subsidiarity principle can be implemented in any multi-level system of organization of public power, functioning on the basis of a synthesis of the principles of solidarity, adaptability, pluralism, autonomy, democracy. It is concluded that in its synthetic unity the achievement of efficiency, the establishment of pluralism and participatory democracy acts as a paradigm of the principle of subsidiarity.

subsidiarity, centralization, decentralization, devolution, deconcentration, delegation, efficiency, pluralism, participatory democracy, public authorities

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