INTERNATIONAL MUNICIPAL COOPERATION AS A TOOL FOR ATTRACTING INVESTMENTS AND EFFECTIVE ADMINISTRATION OF LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article carries out a comprehensive study of the transformation of the role and functions of territorial communities as subjects of international activity in the context of modern crisis challenges caused by geopolitical instability and globalization processes. The theoretical basis of municipal paradiplomacy, which is considered as a tool of decentralized external cooperation, and the concept of multi-level governance are analyzed. It is substantiated that such a paradigm allows communities to go beyond the boundaries of traditional local governance, turning into full-fledged players in the international arena, capable of forming their own strategic alliances and partnerships. Particular attention is paid to the development and implementation of mechanisms of "recovery marketing" in the context of post-war reconstruction. The transition to digital administration of international projects is detailed as a critically important tool for increasing transparency and institutional trust on the part of international donors and financial institutions. The paper substantiates that the use of modern digital administration tools and automation of reporting processes contributes to transparency of interaction with partners, significantly reduces corruption threats and optimizes the pace of attracting investment resources. Based on the analysis of successful cases of Ukrainian cities that have demonstrated high adaptability in crisis conditions, a direct correlation between the quality of strategic branding of the territory and the volume of foreign direct investment attracted has been confirmed. Priority vectors for the development of international cooperation of territorial communities have been identified: digital transformation of municipal services, transition to network diplomacy models and systemic professionalization of personnel in the field of project management. The formulated conclusions and practical recommendations are fully correlated with the goals of the State Strategy for Regional Development until 2027. The emphasis is on the need to form the "subjectivity" of communities, which provides for their financial and managerial self-sufficiency in the global context. The study has practical significance for representatives of local governments, civil servants, and scholars who research issues of public administration and international relations at the subnational level.