samospráva

Samospráva, or self-government, is the system by which local communities are granted autonomous authority to administer public affairs within defined territorial units. It is based on the principle that decisions affecting residents should be made as close to them as possible, within the framework of national law. Samospráva encompasses the distribution of powers between central authorities and local or regional entities.

There are typically two levels of samospráva: municipal self-government and regional self-government. Municipalities handle local matters such as housing, local roads and waste management, primary education, local cultural life, social services, and urban planning. Regions or higher-tier entities coordinate broader issues, including regional development, transport planning, and often secondary education and larger infrastructure projects. Both levels operate with some degree of autonomy to tailor policies to local needs.

Autonomy in samospráva is exercised through elected representatives and executive officials. Municipalities usually have elected councils and an executive leader (such as a mayor or equivalent), while regional bodies have their own assemblies and leadership. Financing comes from a mix of own revenues (local taxes and fees), transfers from central government, and, in many cases, EU funds or other grants. This financial structure aims to enable sustainable service provision while maintaining accountability to residents.

The legal framework for samospráva comprises constitutional guarantees and statutory acts that define powers, responsibilities, oversight mechanisms, and accountability. The system strives for responsive administration, citizen participation, and transparent governance. Challenges commonly include funding sufficiency, administrative capacity, quality and uniformity of services, and coordination with higher levels of government.