Digitalization of Ukraine's Economy: Transformational Processes and Paths to Integration

Abstract

Digitalization, or digital transformation, is considered by leading economists as a key factor for the sustainable development of the global economy as a whole, as well as for each nation as a part of modern society. Ukraine, a country striving for integration into the European Union, is actively enhancing its approaches to the implementation of digital technologies in its economy and society. This article examines the impact of the digitalization process on Ukraine's economy and its consequences for development, integration, and utilization of digital technologies in sectors such as public services, business, and access to information technologies. Special attention is given to evaluating Ukraine's progress in the development and implementation of information products, as well as improving the accessibility of digital resources for citizens, particularly in conditions of armed conflict. Key criteria have been identified for the development and implementation of the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) in Ukraine. An analysis of legislative and institutional aspects related to the adoption of DESI as a tool for monitoring the level of digital transformation in the economy is conducted, including alignment with European Union norms and compliance with national development programs in line with core digitalization strategies. The necessity of fully establishing the DESI ecosystem in Ukraine is emphasized as a crucial condition for the successful integration of the country into the European Union. For successful integration into the European community, Ukraine needs to enhance its digital infrastructure, make amendments to its legislative framework, ratify European quality standards, and adjust statistical reporting. Implementing recommendations for data collection and calculations based on the DESI index will contribute to the transformation and expansion of societal digitalization processes, facilitate adaptation to EU standards, and enhance the competitiveness of Ukrainian enterprises in European markets. DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/cike2023.42; UDC: 338.1:004.78(477); JEL: A10, F15, H41, O19