Wartime Risks: Impact on Science, Technology, Innovation, and Prospects for Sustainable Development in Ukraine
Authors:   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”, Pysarenko T. V. , Kvasha T. K. ,   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”, Musina L. A. ,   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”, Bohomazova V. V. ,   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”, Kovalenko O. I. ,   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”, Rozhkova L. V. ,   State Institution “Ukrainian Institute of Scientific and Technical Expertise and Information”
Published: December 2024

The monograph “Wartime Risks: Impact on Science, Technology, Innovation, and Prospects for Sustainable Development in Ukraine” offers a critical and timely contribution to understanding the consequences of war on the country's scientific and technological landscape. Conducted within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are particularly relevant for a nation in wartime, the study examines how Ukraine's war economy operates amid persistent uncertainty. The authors address a wide spectrum of risks and challenges confronting Ukraine today, particularly in areas of science, technology, innovation, and the environment. This monograph is the first of its kind in Ukraine, as the impact of wartime conditions on science, technology, and innovation (STI) has been insufficiently explored until now.
The methodology of the study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, blending socio-economic and institutional analysis. Utilizing tools such as bibliometric and factor analysis, the authors identify key risks and opportunities arising from the war that could affect Ukraine's scientific and technological potential. The monograph not only assesses the current state of research but also highlights critical factors influencing the country’s post-war recovery. Despite the challenges, the authors assert that Ukraine possesses significant scientific and technological potential, particularly in fields like information and communication technologies, mathematics, physics, and renewable energy. These areas may serve as pillars for the nation's future reconstruction. The study also suggests promising research and development trajectories that could restore Ukraine’s STI capacities.
This work makes a significant contribution to understanding the pivotal role of science and technology in Ukraine's wartime recovery. It is particularly valuable as scientific research in Ukraine has, until now, largely overlooked the specific risks posed by wartime conditions. Moreover, the monograph successfully integrates both theoretical and practical dimensions of STI development, which are essential for the country's sustainable future.
The first chapter offers a thorough analysis of Ukraine’s socio-economic challenges during the war. The authors highlight how the war has catalyzed profound transformations in both the economy and society, complicating the achievement of national SDG targets. Specific attention is given to the science and technology sector, which has suffered from reduced funding, infrastructure destruction, and the emigration of qualified personnel. Nevertheless, the authors note that with appropriate support for science and innovation, recovery is possible.
The second section explores the SDG 9 mission, “Digitalizing Society,” a critical area for Ukraine's post-war development. The war has significantly slowed progress in this domain, but the authors underscore the importance of digitalization for recovery. They analyze the barriers to integrating digital technologies into the economy and society, which have hindered the effectiveness of this mission. They also propose solutions, advocating for investments in digital infrastructure and support for digital startups as essential steps for the future.
The third section examines the impact of the war on healthcare, which has suffered from the destruction of medical infrastructure, supply chain disruptions, and the loss of human resources. The authors outline the increased health risks resulting from these challenges and their detrimental effect on achieving SDG targets related to health and wellness. The analysis is detailed, providing a clear understanding of how the war has undermined the healthcare system and the necessary steps for rebuilding it.
The fourth section addresses the “Resource Efficient Economy and Alternative Energy” mission, which has encountered significant challenges due to the war. The destruction of energy infrastructure, resource shortages, and difficulties in advancing alternative energy sources are all highlighted. However, the authors also point out potential opportunities for innovation in the energy sector post-conflict, suggesting that this crisis could serve as a catalyst for long-term growth and development.
The chapter on “Environmental Management and Circular Economy” delves into environmental issues exacerbated by the war. It addresses the degradation of natural resource management, ecosystem destruction, and environmental risks that complicate SDG implementation. However, the authors argue that environmental protection is integral to Ukraine's European Union integration process, linking climate change mitigation and the Green Agenda to the post-war recovery effort. Sustainable recovery and transformation, they argue, must be at the heart of Ukraine's reconstruction strategy.
The sixth chapter explores the challenges posed to the “Safe Food” mission, which has been severely impacted by the war. The destruction of agricultural infrastructure, logistical difficulties, and increased food insecurity threaten the provision of quality food. The authors present concrete recommendations for overcoming these challenges, such as advancing agricultural technologies and restoring food supply chains, which are vital for post-war recovery.
The final section focuses on industrial technology and materials science, sectors hit hard by the war. The authors analyze the severe losses in research and development related to materials science and industrial technology, which are essential for the country's industrial future. However, they also propose strategies to restore and advance these sectors, particularly through innovation and supporting research initiatives.
In conclusion, the authors underscore the devastating impact of the war on Ukraine’s progress toward the SDGs. They stress the need for restoring scientific and technological infrastructure, strengthening international cooperation, and investing in advanced technologies to rebuild the post-war economy and society. The integration of scientific research into the socio-economic recovery process is presented as a key factor for Ukraine's successful reconstruction.
This monograph is a valuable contribution to the study of the war’s impact on Ukraine’s sustainable development objectives. The authors effectively combine theoretical analysis with practical recommendations for policymakers and researchers. The work is well-structured, offering specific proposals to address the challenges posed by the war. The ideas presented will be beneficial for policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and international organizations as they develop strategies to integrate science and technology into Ukraine's overall recovery plan. This study is an essential resource for anyone involved in Ukraine’s post-war recovery.