DEVELOPMENT OF THE EU DIGITAL ECONOMY IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT

Abstract

Considering the development of the digital economy as one of the central priorities of the EU strategy, it is important to emphasize the external dimension of its growth, driven by the transformation of digitalization into a key factor of competitiveness, economic growth, and resilience in the context of globalization. The EU is oriented toward strengthening its position as a global actor, protecting the common interests of its member states, and promoting its own approach to digitalization worldwide. This is particularly important for Ukraine in terms of building its own digital economy, accelerating European integration, and developing a strategy for integration into the global digital order. The aim of this study is to identify the key features of the EU’s digital economy development in the contemporary global context. The paper emphasizes the importance of achieving digital sovereignty for the EU, which is a multidimensional task, and highlights the need for a stronger orientation toward global leadership and increased activity on the international stage; accordingly, the strengths and weaknesses of the EU in the digital sphere are identified in comparison with other global actors. Particular attention is paid to the specifics of legal regulation in the digital sector, as well as to the EU’s lag behind the United States and China in applied developments, innovation, and semiconductor production. Using the Global Talent Competitiveness Index, it is demonstrated that the EU currently lags behind in the competition for human capital, and the study also reveals its shortcomings in financing advanced ICT development. At the same time, positive developments are noted, particularly in the adoption of ICT by businesses and the achievements of a number of European companies. Among the key directions for strengthening digital sovereignty, special attention is given to increasing the level of digital convergence among member states, the challenges of which are evidenced by the indicators of the ICT Development Index. The EU’s position in international trade in ICT services and goods is also assessed and, despite positive changes, confirms the need to reduce dependence on imports. The EU’s new International Digital Strategy is aimed at improving its global standing by strengthening internal capacity and supporting businesses, as well as achieving greater autonomy and global leadership.