The tools of convergence theory in economic science and practice of regional policy in Ukraine

Modern economic approaches to understanding the impact of disparities on the economic development of the regions of Ukraine are analyzed. The study was conducted using elements of convergence theory. The study was based on gross regional product (GRP) per capita and the Gini coefcient by region for the period 2004 - 2019. Absolute convergence was chosen as the methodological basis. Sigma and beta convergence methods were used to determine the trend of convergence of economic indicators between regions. The dynamics of inequality of the Ukraine regions development in the period from 2004 to 2019 was tested: the years in which regional policy was conducted in the absence of strategic planning (2004 - 2005) and with its use (2006-2019). It is established that sigma convergence processes were not observed during the analyzed period, as evidenced by the upward trend in the values of the calculated coefcient of variation and Gini coefcient. The reliability of the obtained results is confrmed by data obtained from other sources of information (Regional Human Development Index, data from the Ministry of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine). The calculation of the Gini forecast coefcient until 2027 did not confrm the decrease in the differentiation of the regions of Ukraine in the forecast period. The calculations showed that the average region needs 14.6 years to cover half of the distance that separates it from the steady state, which corresponds to a convergence rate of 3.37% per year. It was found that the current regional policy identifed trends in the study and developed forecasts are not taken into account, which complicates the achievement of the goal set in the State Strategy for Regional Development until 2027. It was found that the results do not allow conclusions about the effectiveness of regional policy. Therefore, further research is needed, in particular the identifcation and calculation of variables that reflect the impact of regional policy on regional imbalances. It is also advisable to take into account and check the presence of "club" convergence, i.e. by groups of regions within the country. Key words: convergence, regions, regional policy, development strategy, forecasting, level of development, economic growth, efficiency.