Evidence-based Policymaking in Ukraine: Key Features and Prospects

Abstract

This article focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of evidence-based public policy in Ukraine. The study argues that the core idea behind the concept of evidence-based policy lies in the systematic use of empirical data, collected and analysed through scientific methods, by public authorities to justify critical state decisions properly. The article stresses that the concept of evidence-based policy in political and administrative activities has two key dimensions. Firstly, it involves practically implementing policy measures and programmes that scientific data confirm as effective. Secondly, it entails a methodological approach to policy development and implementation grounded in factual data and analysis. The study establishes that the development of evidence-based policymaking in Ukraine is essential for enhancing the efficiency of public administration. The introduction of modern analytical tools for evaluation and assessment, as well as ensuring data transparency, will allow for more informed decision-making, thereby increasing public trust in government. However, the success of this initiative depends on several interrelated factors: political commitment to using reliable data, broad consultations, the existence of effective institutional mechanisms for cooperation with research institutions, and the provision of adequate resources for conducting research. The author concludes that evidence-based policy in Ukraine most fully implements through the regulatory impact analysis procedure for draft regulatory legal acts in the field of economic activity. In other areas of public administration, inconsistent implementation occurs. A comparison of the impact assessment procedure in Ukraine and similar procedures in developed democracies has revealed significant differences in both practices. In European countries, impact assessment is a policy development tool that helps identify potential negative consequences and benefits, realistically evaluate the costs of different solutions, and identify risks that may affect society, private organisations, the environment, and other stakeholders in the long term. The process involves data collection and consultations with stakeholders. In contrast to European practice, Ukraine typically conducts impact assessments of legislative initiatives too late, often making the political decision and developing the draft initiative before the assessment. Rather than selecting the most effective options for achieving policy goals, stakeholders usually use impact assessments post-factum to justify decisions already made. Whereas in European countries the impact assessment procedure concerns only the most important issues for society and the state, in Ukraine the range of draft regulatory acts in the field of economic activity subject to assessment is extensive. Establishing a comprehensive system for assessing the impact of legislative initiatives and parliamentary oversight of law enforcement is a crucial step towards improving the legislative process in Ukraine. This will not only enhance the quality of decisions made but also ensure their effective implementation. A transparent assessment process aims to complicate the adoption of decisions that serve the interests of select groups rather than benefiting society as a whole. The methodology for conducting impact assessments should adhere to international standards and employ modern scientific methods. Following the example of the European Commission and EU member states, both the government and internal parliamentary bodies (such as research services and committees) should undertake legislative impact assessments and the post-legislative scrutiny system. The assessments should cover the most critical areas of legislation, be conducted early in the draft stage, include not only financial and economic aspects but also social, environmental, and other factors, and be transparent and accessible to the public.