Nizhny Novgorod Oblast Proposes Major Local Governance Changes

The region plans to reshape local governance. Will the changes improve efficiency or divide communities?

, and Administrator

2025 November 2 . 1:07 AM

1 min read

This is a picture of a city, where there are buildings, trees, poles, roads, vehicles , sky.

Nizhny Novgorod Oblast Proposes Major Local Governance Changes

Nizhny Novgorod Oblast is contemplating substantial changes to its local governance structure. Proposed amendments intend to divide the roles of the head of local government and the head of the city administration. The region also plans to decrease the number of municipalities by 201 through consolidation.

Governor Valery Shantsev endorses this proposal, considering it the most effective approach. Similar charter amendments have already been enacted in several cities and districts of the oblast. Under the new system, the head of administration would be appointed under contract, manage daily operations, and be held accountable for their work. Meanwhile, the head of local government would lead the representative body, engage with residents, and draft local regulations.

The changes have ignited debate. Leaders of Dzerzhinsk's political parties and city council deputies have opposed alterations to Dzerzhinsk's constitution. However, the regional parliament will ultimately decide on new municipal boundaries after consolidation. Elections for rural and urban settlement councils will follow this process.

The proposed amendments, if approved, will significantly reshape local governance in Nizhny Novgorod Oblast. They aim to enhance efficiency and accountability, but have also sparked controversy. The final decision lies with the regional parliament, which will determine the future of local governance in the region.