Evaluating the impact of digitalization on economic development: national and international aspects

Abstract

The article examines the relationship between digitalization and the economic development of countries in both national and international dimensions. It is shown that digital transformation acts as a key driver of economic modernization by influencing productivity, market structures, access to public services, and the formation of human capital. Based on the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), the study analyses the specific features of digital development in Ukraine and the Member States of the European Union. Differences in the pace of digital transformation between the countries of Central and Eastern Europe and the digital leaders of the EU are identified. The findings demonstrate that the introduction of digital technologies into the business environment, public administration and education systems creates significant potential for increasing labour productivity, innovation activity and household income.
To provide a comprehensive assessment of the socio-economic outcomes of digitalization, the Human Development Index (HDI) is applied. The analysis shows that countries with higher DESI values generally also exhibit higher HDI levels, which confirms the existence of a stable relationship between digital maturity and the quality of human potential. At the same time, for Ukraine a number of constraints are identified, including uneven digital development, infrastructural disparities and macroeconomic challenges, which limit the full realization of the benefits of digital transformation. The study concludes that a comprehensive state policy aimed at developing digital skills, increasing the inclusiveness of the digital environment, expanding electronic public services and stimulating the digitalization of business processes is essential for ensuring sustainable economic growth.