THE PRINCIPLE OF TRANSPARENCY AS A CATEGORY OF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW: DOCTRINAL FOUNDATIONS AND EUROPEAN STANDARDS

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive study of the principle of transparency as a fundamental category of modern administrative law. Based on the analysis of international and European standards of open governance, the practice of the institutions of the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights, as well as the developments of Ukrainian legal doctrine, the author substantiates an original vision of the content and structure of the principle of transparency. The article highlights its place within the system of principles of administrative law, its interrelation with the right of access to public information, and its connection to the principles of openness, accountability, and good governance. Proposals are formulated regarding the harmonization of national legislation with European standards, along with outlining practical mechanisms for implementing transparency in the activities of Ukraine’s public administration.

It is concluded that the lack of a clear doctrinal model, the fragmented nature of legislative regulation, and the widespread formalism in complying with openness requirements necessitate further systematic work at both scientific and normative-practical levels.

The authors propose viewing transparency as an integrative principle of administrative law that encompasses informational, procedural, and institutional dimensions, ensuring the full realization of the right to information, the right to good administration, and the principles of good governance. Its implementation requires not only legislative improvement but also a transformation of administrative culture, the development of mechanisms for public participation, strengthening the capacity of oversight bodies, and the formation of new ethical standards of public service.