THE EMERGENCE AND DEVELOPMENT OF LEGAL EDUCATION AND SCIENCE IN UKRAINE

Abstract

This article analyzes the historical development of legal education and science in Ukraine, emphasizing their fundamental role in shaping the national legal system and the country’s civilizational progress. The study’s relevance stems from the urgent need to find innovative approaches to enhance legal education amidst its ongoing reform, modernization, and integration into the European and global educational landscape. The paper identifies key periods in the establishment of higher legal education in Ukrainian lands: from its inception in the 17th–18th centuries, through its development during the Soviet era, to the current stage of reform in independent Ukraine. It is underscored that the national system of legal professional training was formed at the intersection of domestic traditions and global achievements in legal thought, particularly the concepts of natural law. The decisive role of the state in shaping the content and forms of legal education, the high level of development of legal science within educational institutions, and the coexistence of state and non-state institutions are highlighted as defining characteristics of this system. Particular attention is given to the fact that reforming legal education is an integral component of overall legal reform. This aims to enhance the quality of legal professionals’ training in line with contemporary societal demands and international educational standards. Indeed, the level of professional training of lawyers directly impacts the effectiveness of law enforcement, the judiciary, and the functioning of state institutions. The creation of a European educational space necessitates a mandatory consideration of all historical heritage. Only a deep understanding of previous educational paradigms and a thorough analysis of their strengths and weaknesses will enable the effective reform of higher legal education and successful integration into the global and European intellectual community. Therefore, the comprehensive resolution of existing problems, the systematic integration of education, science, and practice, and the preservation of the principles of fundamental knowledge and reliance on scientific schools are critically important for the further development of legal education in Ukraine.