DEVELOPING A VISION FOR DIGITAL COMMUNITIES: LESSONS FROM EU PRACTICES
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Abstract
The accelerated digital transformation of society, coupled with the growing prominence of information technologies in governance, has elevated the development of digital communities to a subject of paramount importance in both academic research and public policy discourse. Digital communities have the capacity to enhance social cohesion, improve citizen engagement, and facilitate efficient delivery of public services, particularly in transitional economies such as Ukraine. The objective of this study is to formulate a vision for digital communities in Ukraine by conducting a comparative analysis of existing practices in European Union (EU) countries. The research will examine digital community models, citizen participation mechanisms, and public governance strategies in selected EU states. The present study employs a comparative and theoretical approach, drawing upon extant literature on digital governance, smart communities, and sustainable development. The methodological approach encompasses the systematisation and analysis of policy documents, the employment of case study comparison, and the synthesis of international best practices. The theoretical framework underpinning this study is predicated on the principles of citizen-centred governance, socio-technical systems theory, and the concept of sustainable digital transformation. The findings of the research demonstrate that successful digital communities require a combination of robust digital infrastructure, user-oriented e-services, and mechanisms for active citizen participation. The integration of open data platforms, smart technology solutions, and green economy principles into local governance, as exemplified by the practices of the EU, has been demonstrated to yield substantial benefits. For Ukraine, the adaptation of these approaches has the potential to support inclusive digital transformation, strengthen community resilience, and reduce digital inequality. Moreover, the findings emphasise the necessity of aligning technological innovations with social and environmental priorities to achieve sustainable development outcomes. The practical significance of this study lies in its provision of evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, local authorities, and civil society organisations engaged in digital governance. The implementation of a structured vision for digital communities in Ukraine has the potential to foster effective citizen engagement, enhance the efficiency of public services, and accelerate integration into the European digital ecosystem. The study makes a theoretical contribution to the understanding of digital community formation, whilst also offering practical guidance for the promotion of sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced local governance.
How to Cite
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digital community, digital governance, citizen engagement, EU practices, smart community, sustainable development, e-services, digital transformation
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