A systemic model of competence delineation among public authorities during the legal regime of martial law

Abstract

The article examines the theoretical and legal foundations of competence delineation among public authorities in Ukraine under martial law, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring effective, coherent, and resilient public administration during crisis situations. The study is particularly relevant in the context of disrupted standard administrative mechanisms, where maintaining coordinated governance, preventing duplication of functions, and ensuring legal certainty become essential for both operational decision-making and long-term institutional stability. The purpose of this research is to develop a systemic model of competence delineation that facilitates coordinated interaction among institutions at different levels, reduces overlapping responsibilities, and strengthens legal clarity in crisis contexts. The proposed model is grounded in the principles of administrative-legal regulation, which provide a framework for structuring the powers of public authorities, ensuring legal certainty, and guaranteeing the lawfulness of administrative decisions. To achieve this goal, the study analyzes institutional, functional, dynamic, and competency-based approaches, alongside the existing legal framework, identifying key problem areas such as duplication of powers between military administrations and local authorities, uncoordinated institutional interactions, and normative uncertainty that hinder rapid and effective governance. Based on this analysis, the research proposes a comprehensive systemic model integrating normative, institutional, procedural, communication, and control-evaluation components within a vertically structured framework. The model encompasses civil authorities, military administrations, and specialized services across functional domains, including administration, security, law enforcement, and social services. A key feature of the model is its dynamic delegation and redistribution of powers, which enhances operational flexibility, ensures coordination of institutional actions, prevents conflicts, and improves administrative efficiency. Moreover, the integration of digital tools and interagency platforms facilitates real-time information exchange, enabling effective management during crisis situations. The results indicate that the proposed model serves not only as a theoretical framework but also as a practical instrument for modernizing public administration under martial law. By fostering adaptive, coordinated, and transparent governance, it strengthens institutional resilience, ensures timely decision-making, and enhances public trust in state institutions during emergencies.