RISK ANALYSIS IN THE SYSTEM OF OTHER (NON-PRICE) METHODS FOR EVALUATING TENDER PROPOSALS

B a c k g r o u n d . Non-price criteria are an important strategic tool for achieving social, environmental, and economic objectives. However, their practical application may be accompanied by a number of problems and risks. This study aims to identify the main problems and risks associated with the use of non-price evaluation criteria and to develop well-grounded recommendations in the context of establishing effective safeguards to neutralize or mitigate these risks. M e t h o d s . The study employed the special legal method for analyzing the regulatory framework, case analysis to examine specific procurement examples, the statistical method for processing empirical data, as well as a systems approach to generalize findings and formulate reasoned proposals. R e s u l t s . An analysis was conducted of the regulatory framework, statistical data, and individual practical cases related to the use of non-price criteria in evaluating tender proposals in Ukraine and EU member states. The research showed that, despite the formal recognition of the advantages of this tool, its practical application remains limited due to legal uncertainty, low awareness among contracting authorities, and the risk of abuse. Even the positive experience of European countries demonstrates that the active use of non-price criteria does not always guarantee successful outcomes and, in some cases, leads to distorted bidding results. At the same time, under conditions of proper regulation and effective procurement oversight, non-price criteria can become a powerful tool for shaping a transparent, results-oriented, and socially responsible procurement system. C o n c l u s i o n s . Public procurement practice in Ukraine demonstrates a low level of application of non-price evaluation criteria, which is driven by legal ambiguity and the risk of abuse. To improve the situation and encourage more frequent use of non-price criteria by contracting authorities, it is essential not only to adopt European approaches but also to ensure appropriate conditions for their implementation through comprehensive reforms.