Digital Tools for Managing Regional Socio-Economic Inequalities in Ukraine in the Face of Long-Term External Threats

Abstract

This study aims to assess the role of digital technologies in mitigating regional socio-economic inequalities in Ukraine. Specifically, it explores the digital tools most relevant to post-war recovery, evaluates systemic challenges to their deployment, and identifies policy directions aligned with European standards for digital governance. A mixed-methods approach was used, including spatial and statistical analysis of digital and socio-economic disparities across Ukrainian regions, a Delphi expert survey with 25 specialists in public administration and digital transformation, and comparative case analysis of successful digital practices in EU countries. Tools such as GIS, open data platforms, and AI were evaluated based on expert consensus and regional applicability. Analysis revealed that regions in eastern and southern Ukraine lag significantly in digital capacity and service availability. Delphi findings emphasized the need for a national digital strategy, enhanced interoperability across governance levels, and investment in both digital infrastructure and human capacity. Experts prioritized GIS and open data tools for post-crisis recovery and flagged AI’s future role in resilience planning, contingent on institutional readiness. Strategic digital implementation at the regional level is vital for inclusive development. A unified digital platform for managing regional disparities, alongside interoperable systems and targeted capacity-building, could bridge existing divides. The Ukrainian case highlights the broader potential—and limitations—of digital transformation in post-conflict regional governance.