Ukraine’s Integration into the EU Digital Single Market
Authors:   Simon Kuznets Kharkiv National University of Economics, Lola Yuliya Yu. , Mykhailenko Daria H. ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Bolotna Oksana V. ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Diachek Vitalii V. ,   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Published: February 2025

The article is aimed at studying the model of Ukraine’s integration into the Digital Single Market, analyzing the achievements and challenges of digitalization of Business-State-Community. The article examines the process of Ukraine’s integration into the Digital Single Market of the European Union, which is a strategically important stage for strengthening the position of the national economy in the context of global digital transformation. This process opens up new prospects for Ukraine, in particular, access to modern technologies, the development of electronic services and increased competitiveness in the global market. At the same time, integration into the EU digital space requires solving complex tasks, including infrastructure renewal, introduction of innovations, and adaptation of national legislation to European standards. The main benefits of this process are analyzed, such as improving access to digital markets, facilitating bilateral trade and stimulating the development of the IT sector. Particular attention is paid to the role of e-commerce as a key driver of economic growth. The article considers the opportunities provided by e-commerce to Ukrainian enterprises to enter the EU markets, as well as the positive impact of this segment on consumers due to the increase in the range of services and goods. Among the important aspects of integration, the issues of cybersecurity, which are becoming more and more relevant in the face of modern challenges, are considered. Ukraine, which is already facing persistent cyberattacks, needs to increase the level of protection of critical infrastructure, State databases and personal information of citizens. Furthermore, integration into the EU digital market includes the introduction of digital identity, which is a prerequisite for ensuring secure access to digital services. The authors underline the importance of harmonization of legislation for compliance with European standards in such key areas as personal data protection, e-commerce, digital taxation and regulation of the telecommunications market. The relevant changes are aimed at creating a favorable environment for businesses and citizens, stimulating investment and improving interaction with partners in the EU. Despite the noticeable progress in digitalization, Ukraine faces a number of challenges that hinder full integration into the Digital Single Market. In particular, these are cyber threats related to the ongoing military aggression, as well as digital ethics issues that require the development of clear rules and standards for the responsible use of technology. The problem of the digital divide between different regions of the country, which affects the availability of digital services for citizens and businesses, is considered separately. An important aspect is the support from the European Union, which includes financial, technical and expert assistance in implementing reforms and rebuilding infrastructure destroyed by the war. Without this support, it will be difficult for Ukraine to achieve rapid integration into the EU’s Digital Single Space. The article also emphasizes that success in this process depends on the coordination of actions of the government, business and international partners. Ukraine’s integration into the EU Digital Single Market is not only a strategic task, but also an important step towards ensuring economic stability, technological development and integration into the European community on the principles of transparency, innovation and security.