EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE IN OVERCOMING INTERREGIONAL ASYMMETRIES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS SYSTEMS AND WAYS OF ITS IMPLEMENTATION IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The study's relevance lies in the need to overcome significant interregional disparities in the development of Ukraine’s transport and logistics systems by adapting effective European experience within the context of European integration and post-war recovery. The purpose of the article is to examine the European experience in overcoming interregional asymmetries in the development of transport and logistics systems and to identify ways to implement these systems effectively, taking into account national specificities and contemporary challenges. Research methods. The study employs methods of analysis and synthesis, systemic and structural-functional approaches, generalization, and the program-target method, which enable a comprehensive assessment of the European experience and the possibilities of its implementation in Ukraine. Results. It is established that, despite the high level of development of the EU transport and logistics sector, disparities in transport and logistics provision persist both among Member States and within them. The key mechanisms of convergent development of transport systems in the EU are systematized, including the implementation of infrastructure projects of international and regional significance, harmonization of standards and legislation, developed financial and investment instruments, digitalization, the introduction of green technologies, as well as financial and institutional support for peripheral and remote regions within the framework of cohesion policy. The main directions for implementing EU experience in Ukraine are outlined: expanding participation in TEN-T projects, using instruments similar to the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), infrastructure modernization, implementation of European safety standards and tariff compatibility, digitalization of transport and logistics processes, and environmental modernization of transport in line with the European Green Deal. Conclusions. It is noted that adapting these mechanisms to the needs of post-war economic recovery and national characteristics will facilitate the transition to modern transport and logistics models integrated into European systems and help reduce interregional asymmetries.