| Abstract [eng] |
The study object of the Master thesis is the status and functions of the mayor in three Baltic states: Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. In this final work the fundamental institutional and municipal institutional structure models in Baltic countries were analyzed. In order to compare the main local government legislation in Baltic countries, the theoretical aspects based on the scientific literature, Lithuanian, Latvian and Estonian National legislation, local management acts were analyzed and systemized in this research paper. Master thesis aimed to make a comparative analysis of the functions and status of mayor in Baltic countries. The empirical research revealed the theoretical fundamental municipal institutional structure models adopted worldwide. Legislation and document content analysis was implemented to examine and systematize the functions of the mayor, municipal models, law, regulations and decisions of public authorities of the Republic of Lithuania and other Baltic states. The changes of the legal framework of the functions and legal status of the mayor were investigated. Applying an open expert interview research method, the functions and legal status of the mayor of the Baltic countries were compared and directions of improvement were provided. With regard to the models and functions of the local government in Baltic states, there are similarities and differences. Probably the most frequent similarity, is that municipalities often complicate disagreements or divergent opinions between the mayor and the municipal council due to the fact that the Council may outweigh the powers of mayor and administrative and representative functions remain less significant. Master thesis provides conclusions and recommendations leading to improvement of the functions of the mayor. |
