Транскордонна екологічна безпека в системі національної безпеки України: теоретико-правові засади

It is indicated that under the current conditions of globalization processes and intensification of cross-border relations, the issue of ecological security is becoming extremely relevant for Ukraine – a state with a long border with the member states of the European Union and other neighboring countries. Natural ecosystems function regardless of state borders, therefore, pollution of atmospheric air, water bodies, degradation processes in soils or man-made disasters on the territory of one state naturally affect the ecological situation of the adjacent territories of neighboring countries. The article is devoted to a comprehensive study of the theoretical and legal foundations of transboundary ecological security as an integral component of the national security of Ukraine. Doctrinal approaches to the definition of the concepts of “national security”, “transboundary security” and “ecological security” are analyzed, their correlation and interrelation in modern legal science are investigated. It is established that cross-border security is an independent legal category that occupies a special place in the hierarchy of security levels – between national security and regional security. The methodological fallacy of the narrow interpretation of cross-border security exclusively through the prism of state border protection is substantiated; instead, modern doctrine defines its complex nature, which includes political, economic, scientific and technological, humanitarian, demographic and environmental components. Particular attention is paid to environmental security as a strategically important component of cross-border security in the context of global environmental challenges. It is proven that natural ecosystems do not recognize state borders, therefore air pollution, water resources, soil degradation or man-made accidents in one country inevitably affect the ecological state of adjacent territories. It is determined that transboundary environmental security involves coordinated actions of neighboring states on joint monitoring of the state of the environment, harmonization of environmental standards, prompt response to emergencies and compensation for transboundary environmental damage. It is substantiated that the formation of effective mechanisms of transboundary environmental security is a necessary prerequisite for the sustainable development of border regions, the preservation of common natural heritage and the implementation of the constitutional right of citizens to a safe environment. A conclusion is formulated on the feasibility of improving international environmental interaction at the micro level.