Solving problems at the local level requires the unified activity of both the municipal authorities and representatives of civil society. In this regard, the author attempts to comprehend the concepts of ‘local self-government’ and ‘local community’ in the context of the formation of a cooperative environment in the relationship between them, and also gives his own definition of the term based on existing approaches and views. The essence of this understanding of the local community is to emphasize the uniqueness of the role of local governments and public organizations, as well as individual citizens. The author focuses on the participation of non-profit organizations in this process, which is illustrated by the example of the all-Russian Council of local self-government and projects implemented by this organization, as well as by considering the work of the Association for the promotion of twinning relations of Cologne and Volgograd. The paper concludes that the role of the non-profit sector in the development of local communities needs to be strengthened in Russia. At the same time, it is necessary to change approaches to the definition of the term ‘local community’ in such a way that it reflects the desire to form associations that meet the criteria for involvement in the process of solving local problems that arise for public organizations and local residents (of different focus and different significance for the municipal territory). It is important that local communities have their own opportunities for self-identification against the background of existing associations and have a fruitful influence on the communication process between different communities and allow the exchange of experience in various fields.
