Опыт стран Европейского союза по слиянию муниципальных образований

Abstract

This article describes the multi-faceted experience of the European countries that over the last few years managed to complete a significant number of municipal institutions. The article analyzes the mechanisms used for the purpose of mergers, as well as the results achieved by eight Member States of the European Union, who from 2006 to 2015 reduced the number of municipalities by at least 15%, at the national level (Denmark, Greece, Latvia, the Netherlands, Finland), or in certain regions (Austria, Germany, the United Kingdom). Decisions made vary a lot, but have some common features. In particular, the merger process is often complex and long; involves significant financial incentives for the voluntary merger with the following obligatory one. Reducing the number of intermediate levels of government, or the transfer of some of the powers in the newly formed municipalities often serve as facilitator measures, especially in the case of forced mergers.