Muharryam Ibyatov: «It is important to ensure a direct dialogue with citizens in all spheres of activity of municipalities»
Deputy Minister of Justice of the Republic of Tatarstan Mukharryam Ibyatov reminded the residents of the Republic of the importance of participation in decision-making in municipalities, and also explained the differences between public hearings and public discussions and the role of territorial public governments.
According to the Deputy Minister, the involvement of citizens in the processes of local government is growing every year, but I would like to see more active participation of residents in making important decisions.
«Local government is a real tool through which residents can directly influence their lives,- the deputy minister said. - There are many forms of participation in local government, such as: public hearings and public discussions, municipal elections, gatherings of citizens and the organization of territorial public self-government».
According to Mukharryam Ibyatov, the most common form of citizen participation in local government is written appeals. For example, in 2023, local governments considered 74,100 appeals from citizens, republican executive authorities - 78,547; the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Tatarstan – 2,173.
As for ensuring transparency and openness of our legislation, there are mandatory procedures for publishing all decisions and regulations of local governments on official websites and in the media. In addition, public meetings are held where citizens can attend and express their opinions.
«In some issues of local importance, taking into account the opinions of citizens is mandatory. For example, taking into account the opinion and consent of the population, the borders and status of municipalities are being changed, their unification, division and abolition are being carried out», - the deputy minister added.
The Deputy Minister of Justice named the differences between public hearings and public discussions.
Both of these forms of public control are aimed at monitoring the work of local governments, checking their decisions and actions, as well as evaluating their effectiveness, he explained. «Unlike public discussions, public hearings are held in person – with the direct presence, participation of citizens, meeting in certain places. Moreover, some categories of acts will not be considered legally adopted if they are not discussed by the public! For example, the following should be submitted to public hearings: the draft charter of the municipality, the draft local budget, questions about the transformation of the municipality, master plans, rules of land use», - Mukharryam Ibyatov said.
Mukharryam Ibyatov noted the considerable contribution of territorial public self-government to the development of local self-government. CBT is closest to the population, as they represent the interests of specific territorial communities and have a better understanding of local problems and needs. This allows municipalities to respond more effectively and accurately to citizens' requests.
Addressing Tatarstan residents, Ibyatov stressed: «Your opinion and your activity are of great importance for the development of our communities. Use all available mechanisms such as referendums, public hearings and meetings to make your voice heard. Through joint efforts, we will be able to make our republic even more comfortable and favorable for living».