Public Procurement Under Martial Law: Balance Between Flexibility and Transparency
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58423/2786-6742/2025-10-343-358Keywords:
audit, state control, State Audit Service of Ukraine, monitoring, public procurement, risks, Prozorro systemAbstract
The article examines the transformational processes in the functioning of public procurement under martial law, which has served as a catalyst for changes in the regulatory and legal framework of procurement activities. Particular attention is devoted to the analysis of regulatory legal acts, especially Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers № 169 and № 1178, which established the legal basis for simplified and special procurement procedures. Key changes are outlined, including the introduction of open tenders with specific features, the revision of value thresholds, the legalization of direct procurement, and the use of Prozorro Market – all of which have significantly influenced procurement structure and transparency. The article also identifies risks associated with the increased share of non-competitive procedures (94.3% of the total number of procurements), documented violations, and common corruption practices. The role of civil society organizations, particularly the Dozorro project, in conducting independent monitoring is emphasized, alongside the need to improve the control system through automated risk indicators and preventive audits. The international experience of Israel, the United States, and Poland in regulating procurement during crisis situations is analyzed, confirming the relevance of temporary procedural simplification while upholding fundamental principles of openness, accountability, and oversight. Key directions for further optimization are identified, including the mandatory disclosure of information on direct contracts, the establishment of clear criteria for flexible procedures, enhancing the effectiveness of post-audit mechanisms, and the development of a transitional procurement model to support full-scale recovery. The application of a comprehensive approach – combining digital tools, a robust regulatory framework, and effective oversight – is viewed as a key factor in ensuring the efficient use of public funds during wartime and the stable operation of the public procurement system in accordance with core governance principles.
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