History of the formation and development of management in the field of physical culture and sports in independent Ukraine

Abstract

Introduction. The issue of development of governance in the field of physical culture and sports in Ukraine is of particular relevance in the context of socio-political transformations, public administration reforms and the impact of global challenges. Since gaining independence, the Ukrainian state has gone through a difficult path of establishing its own model of sports sector management - from the Soviet heritage to modern forms of decentralized and digital management. The need for a critical analysis of this path is driven by the need to understand the effectiveness of the reforms, identify current problems and formulate strategic guidelines for the development of the industry in today's crisis conditions. The purpose of the study is to identify the stages of transformation and key trends, peculiarities of the formation of management mechanisms in the field of physical culture and sports in Ukraine at different stages of its independent development. Materials and methods. The methodological basis of the study is the historical and logical approach, structural and functional analysis, analysis of the regulatory framework, official reporting of public administration bodies, as well as the method of comparative analysis. Elements of content analysis are used to study public policy in the field of sports. Results: three key periods in the history of physical culture and sports management in Ukraine are identified: the stage of formation (1991-2000), the stage of sectoral reforms (2001-2013) and the current period of transformation in the context of decentralization, pandemic and war (2014-2024). The author analyzes legislative initiatives, institutional changes, funding challenges, and the growing role of local communities and civil society. Particular attention is paid to the role of the state in reorienting sports policy to support national defense, psychological health of the population and infrastructure restoration. The article highlights the participation of international partners, as well as the initiatives of volunteer organizations that play an important role in the implementation of health programs in the frontline regions. Conclusions: The study has confirmed that the governance system in the field of physical culture and sports in Ukraine has developed unevenly, but has adapted to the new socio-economic and political conditions. Despite achievements in legal and regulatory support, international cooperation, and infrastructure development, the sector still faces challenges in terms of staffing, financing, digitalization, and effective implementation of decentralization. The findings emphasize the need to further improve strategic planning, develop partnerships with communities, and implement sustainable management models that can ensure the sustainability of the industry in times of crisis and emergency.