Chernihiv region takes the third place in terms of decentralization and local self-government  reform. The corresponding ranking is created by the Ministry of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine monthly.

The region is the first by the number of raions (districts), where amalgamated territorial communities have been created. There is no administrative district where amalgamated communities do not function.

Chernihiv region is the second by the number of amalgamated territorial communities with administrative centers in the cities of regional importance (Nizhyn and Novhorod-Siverskyi).

Chernihiv region occupies the fourth place by the number of population living in those communities; by the territory covered with amalgamated territorial communities; as well as by the percentage of coverage of the region with amalgamated territorial communities according to the perspective plan. The fourteenth place - by the number of amalgamated territorial communities where less than 5 thousand people live.

"The position of the state authorities - the process of voluntary unification of territorial communities must be completed in 2020. Local elections should take place on a new administrative and territorial basis. Chernihiv region shows good indicators of community creation. 50 amalgamated territorial communities have already been working. They cover two-thirds of the region’s territory," - the Head of the Regional State Administration Mr. Andriy Prokopenko says. Mr.Prokopenko also adds:

"The mentioned amalgamated territorial communities have already started living in a whole new way: the new quality of services they receive and access to those services. They themselves determine what to spend their own financial resources on. They also have direct assistance from the state budget. 210 projects were implemented at the expense of the state subsidy for amalgamated territorial communities last year. Communities are renovating schools, hospitals. Administrative Service Centers are being opened. Sports facilities are being built. Roads are being restored. There are more opportunities for young people. There are also prospects of attracting investor funds to communities.

A good example of an existing amalgamated territorial communities should encourage communities that have not decided to unite yet. By the way, the other day, I signed the Order that supports the desire of six local councils to unite and create the Ripky Amalgamated Territorial Community.

Of course, the main criteria - amalgamated communities should be capable, i.e. are able to develop its territories, and also create comfortable living conditions for people".