Municipalization of Social Rights: The Changing Role of the Local and RegionalAuthorities

The article explores the emerging trend of the municipalisation of social rights within the Council of Europe, with a particular focus on the role of local and regional authorities in upholding and implementing these rights. It examines the conceptual underpinnings of social rights, their inclusion in the European Social Charter, and their interaction with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through an analysis of the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, the article highlights the growing involvement of local and regional authorities in addressing critical social issues, including housing and health. Special attention is given to the Ukrainian context, where these authorities face unique challenges due to the ongoing war and reconstruction efforts. The article argues for improved legal frameworks, capacity-building initiatives and international cooperation to engage local and regional authorities more effectively in the promotion of social rights. Recommendations are made to adapt the Council of Europe’s tools and strategies to the realities faced by local and regional authorities.