Three Seas Economic Journal

DIPLOMACY'S FUNCTION IN GUARANTEEING NATIONAL ENERGY SECURITY

2025-12-04T12:06:34+00:00

Abstract. This article examines the strategic role of energy diplomacy as a fundamental instrument through which states ensure their energy security, economic resilience, and long-term stability. In the contemporary global landscape – characterised by the transition to renewable energy sources, increasing geopolitical tensions, and rising economic interdependence – traditional mechanisms of energy management are no longer sufficient. The subject of this research is the multidimensional function of diplomacy in strengthening national energy systems, shaping international energy relations, and supporting the implementation of sustainable strategies, with a focus on the case of the Republic of Moldova. Methodologically, the study adopts a theoretical-analytical approach, which involves the examination of academic literature, policy documents, and recent developments in international energy governance. A comparative analysis is also employed to contrast Moldova’s diplomatic initiatives with broader European and regional models of energy cooperation. Additionally, the research uses qualitative policy analysis to explore how diplomatic tools – such as bilateral negotiations, multilateral agreements, and participation in regional energy platforms – contribute to enhancing energy security and diversifying supply sources. This combination of methods enables a holistic understanding of the mechanisms through which diplomacy shapes the national energy agenda. The purpose of the study is to identify the ways in which diplomacy can reduce Moldova’s historical vulnerabilities, especially its dependence on a limited number of external suppliers, and to demonstrate how integrating into European energy structures strengthens both security and economic competitiveness. By analysing diplomatic efforts related to energy diversification, cross-border interconnections, infrastructure development, and cooperation with European institutions, the study highlights the importance of proactive and coherent external engagement.The conclusions indicate that energy diplomacy has become a central pillar of national security policy, particularly for small and geopolitically exposed states such as the Republic of Moldova. Diplomatic actions – including participation in European energy markets, negotiating alternative supply routes, and securing financial and technical support from international partners – significantly increase national resilience. The findings also show that Moldova’s alignment with EU norms and integration into regional networks provide long-term benefits in terms of sustainability, affordability, and infrastructure modernisation. Ultimately, the study demonstrates that diplomacy is not only a tool of political communication but a strategic instrument capable of shaping energy policy, reducing external risks, and ensuring the country’s economic and security interests in an increasingly volatile global environment.

EFFICIENCY OF PERSONAL INCOME TAXATION MODELS IN GERMANY AND UKRAINE

2025-12-04T12:06:34+00:00

The article is devoted to a comparative analysis of the efficiency of personal income taxation models in Germany and Ukraine. The study examines in detail the specifics of the German model of personal income taxation, particularly the structure of tax classes, which influence the final tax burden depending on the taxpayer's marital status and income level. The progressive personal income tax scale in Germany is analyzed, which in 2025 ranges from 14% to 45%, and additional mandatory payments are also considered: the solidarity surcharge, which mainly applies to high-income individuals and actually increases the top tax burden to 47.5%, as well as the church tax (8‒9%). The article examines the features and rates of mandatory social contributions in Germany and Ukraine. Key differences are identified in the approaches to financing social insurance systems, particularly in the distribution of the financial burden between employees and employers, as well as in the overall level of tax pressure. To assess the fiscal efficiency and tax fairness of personal income tax, a comparative analysis of the top personal income tax rates in EU countries and Ukraine is conducted. The research employs methods of analysis and synthesis, comparative analysis, system-functional approach, tabular and graphical analysis, abstract-logical method, and the method of analogies. The study concludes that the German tax system provides an individual approach to personal income taxation, takes into account the socio-economic status of taxpayers, and promotes a fair distribution of the tax burden. In contrast, Ukraine applies a proportional model of personal income taxation, which does not comply with the principle of tax fairness, as it does not take into account the solvency and social circumstances of taxpayers. The study establishes that such a model weakens the redistributive function of taxation and undermines trust in the tax system. Special attention is paid to mechanisms ensuring fiscal efficiency, in particular, the issues of digitalization of tax administration. It is established that Germany has a highly developed digital tax infrastructure that ensures transparency, reliability of income accounting, efficiency of procedures, and minimization of tax evasion. In Ukraine, however, despite some positive developments, the process of digitalization of tax administration is still in its formative stage and requires an expansion of institutional reforms to achieve high fiscal efficiency. The results of the study make it possible to formulate recommendations for improving tax policy of Ukraine, taking into account the best practices of the German tax system. The author proposes conceptual directions for reforming the mechanisms of personal income taxation in Ukraine aimed at enhancing tax discipline, ensuring social balance, and strengthening the fiscal sustainability of the state.

WORKING PATTERNS OF TRANSFORMED NONPROFIT ORGANISATIONS DURING THE PANDEMIC. THE ITALIAN CASE

2025-12-04T12:06:34+00:00

This study examines the digital transformation processes and challenges faced by nonprofit organisations (NPOs) in the Lombardy region of Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic. While nonprofits encountered multiple challenges, the pandemic also highlighted the importance of digitalisation by prompting organisations to reassess their technological capabilities, internal processes, and stakeholder engagement practices. The purpose of the study is to analyse how non-profits in Lombardy navigated the shift toward digital tools, identify key barriers to digital transformation, and evaluate the perceived impact of digitalisation on organisational functioning. This study employs the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to explore the factors influencing technology acceptance and the integration of digital tools within the nonprofit sector. The research uses a survey-based methodology, gathering 118 responses from nonprofit personnel across diverse organisations in the Lombardy region, Italy. The questionnaire captured respondents’ rankings of digitalisation challenges, the impact of digital tools on fundraising, communication, and internal processes, as well as the areas where digital transformation remains incomplete. In addition, the survey assessed participants’ expectations regarding the future role of digital technologies in NPO operations. Initially, the questionnaire was prepared in English, translated into Italian, piloted for reliability and then distributed online. The findings reveal that participating NPOs believe limited financial resources, gaps in digital skills, and the absence of clear digital strategies to be the most substantial obstacles in their digital transformation journey. Despite these barriers, most respondents reported positive organisational outcomes, including improved communication, enhanced outreach, increased recruitment capacity, and more effective fundraising processes. The results indicate that digital tools supported organisational resilience during crises such as a pandemic and are widely expected to remain integral to nonprofit operations in the post-crisis environment. The study further highlights the importance of accelerating digital capabilities to ensure successful adaptation and also for nonprofit organisations to remain competitive in the future. The conclusion emphasises that although digitalisation has already brought clear benefits for nonprofit organisations, long-term success requires continued investment in digital skills, strategic planning, cybersecurity, and infrastructure. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of nonprofit digital readiness and underscore the need to support organisations in the ongoing digital transformation process.

THE EUROPEAN UNION CLIMATE POLICIES AND THEIR INDIRECT EFFECTS ON THE ECONOMY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

2025-12-04T12:06:34+00:00

The growing importance of the European Union’s climate agenda, reflected in strategic frameworks such as the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 legislative package, makes the analysis of their external effects increasingly significant for neighboring countries. In this context, the present study examines the ways in which the EU’s environmental and climate policies influence the economic development of the Republic of Moldova. The subject of the study is the Moldovan economy and the structural transformations it undergoes as a result of its deepening integration into the European economic space. As Moldova becomes more closely linked to the EU market through trade, energy cooperation, and regulatory approximation, understanding the indirect transmission of climate policy measures becomes essential for evaluating national economic resilience and adaptation capacity. The purpose of the study is to identify the main economic consequences that EU climate policies generate for Moldova and to highlight both the risks and opportunities associated with this regulatory shift. Specifically, the research seeks to assess how new climate-related standards affect Moldova’s export sectors, how the decarbonization of the European economy reshapes investment flows, and in what ways the energy transition influences national energy security and long-term competitiveness. The methodology is based on a mixed approach that combines qualitative policy analysis with quantitative examination of recent trade, energy, and investment data. Comparative, analytical, and interpretative methods are used to evaluate the extent to which stricter carbon regulations, sustainability requirements, and green transition instruments introduced at the EU level influence Moldova’s economic performance. The study also draws on secondary data, reports, and EU legislative documents to contextualize the implications for Moldova’s policy environment. The findings indicate that Moldova’s strong economic interdependence with the EU amplifies the effects of climate-related regulations on key export-oriented sectors such as agriculture, agro-food processing, industry, and energy. While the adaptation to climate standards may generate higher compliance costs and require substantial technological upgrades, the research shows that these same policies open new development perspectives. Opportunities include increased access to green financing, expansion of renewable energy projects, modernization of infrastructure, and stimulation of innovation in low-carbon production. The study concludes that Moldova can enhance its economic resilience and strengthen its competitive position by aligning national strategies with European climate goals, accelerating regulatory harmonization, and supporting sustainable investment and technological modernization.

FOSTERING ENERGY SECTOR "GREEN" TRANSITION BASED ON RENEWABLE ENERGY IN UKRAINE IN TERMS OF WAR

2025-12-04T12:06:33+00:00

This article presents the updated state of the renewable energy sector development in the European Union countries and in Ukraine. Due to obligatory international frameworks of the sustainable development and climate change policies introduction in the EU and Ukraine, it is important to track the transition period and its supportive mechanisms. The authors provide a comparison of the tendencies of the renewable energy development and "green" transition with emphasis on solar energy in Ukraine and EU before the full-scale war. The object of the research is the complex of introduced mechanisms that support and promote energy transition to RES in Ukraine taking into consideration the conditions of operationg in full-scale war. It is defined that in Ukraine, during wartime, state regulation of renewable energy development is carried out comprehensively – through legislation, financial instruments, market mechanisms, and advanced technical support for critical infrastructure. The primary research target of the article centers on the need for fostering energy transition based on renewable energy in Ukraine in times of war. Framed within this context, our research analyses how economic policy for the transition to renewable energy in Ukraine is optimized for achieving national goals in increasing renewable energy share in energy production and how the state is coping with rebuilding energy infrastructure on the bases of "green" transition during the full-scale war. It is concluded that the new changes in legislation can be effective when applied with the necessary economic and regulative mechanisms. The example of Ukraine shows how the new challenges and mechanisms to tackle with all risks involved are implied in the country during the war. A profound analysis of legislation changes, new financial mechanisms, energy market instruments modernization, construction of distributed energy system in Ukraine during the war with the simultaneous EU integration is made. It is emphasized that Ukraine has a great potential in transition of its energy sector to renewable energy sector. Its evidence is the statistic data of the rapid growth of installed capacities of renewable energy objects in Ukraine before the full-scale war. That’s why it is obvious to make a prediction that in after war period the recovery of Ukraine will be based on "green" energy as well.

INNOVATIVE MODELS OF PRICING FOR DIGITAL EDUCATION PRODUCTS IN UNIVERSITIES

2025-12-04T12:06:33+00:00

Purpose. This study aims to develop innovative pricing models for digital educational products in higher education institutions, focusing on diversification and digitalization, especially for short-term and online programs. The research addresses a significant gap in pricing methods for online courses and digital learning materials, which have become increasingly important as universities expand beyond traditional degree programs. Methodology. The study uses a multi-method approach combining comparative analysis of European pricing practices, typological classification of educational products, and mathematical modeling for cost calculation and price setting. Mathematical algorithms are created for both synchronous and asynchronous online courses, integrating cost-based foundations with market-driven adjustment coefficients that reflect institutional reputation, seasonal demand, level of innovation, digital marketing effectiveness, content relevance, labor market needs for skills, and instructor expertise. Results. The study presents a comprehensive two-part typology that distinguishes traditional educational products (degree programs, professional development courses, corporate training) from online programs (synchronous online courses, asynchronous video courses, electronic materials). Each type shows different cost structures, demand elasticity, and scalability potential. The proposed pricing algorithms factor in fixed costs, variable costs per student, marketing expenses, and nine adjustment coefficients ranging from 0.80 to 1.40, with built-in limits to prevent overpricing. The research shows that digital products have high demand elasticity, substantial economies of scale due to minimal marginal costs, and need to incorporate behavioral and value-based factors along with traditional cost calculations. Financial modeling includes break-even analysis and scenario planning for various enrollment levels. Practical implications. The models developed enable universities to set prices that are economically justified and competitive, adopt flexible pricing strategies (such as subscriptions, freemium, pay-per-course), predict financial outcomes under different scenarios, optimize marketing spending, and diversify revenue sources, especially important during wartime when government funding is limited and institutional relocations have disrupted operations. Value/originality. This research fills a critical methodological gap by developing concrete, formula-based pricing algorithms specifically for digital learning environments. The integration of behavioral factors, quality measures, and labor market relevance with cost-based calculations presents a new approach to competitive pricing in higher education, situated within Ukraine's wartime context and the urgent need for financial independence while maintaining educational accessibility.

PLANNING ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AS A FACTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS

2025-12-04T12:06:33+00:00

The article considers business planning as a factor in the development of entrepreneurial activity in the agricultural sector and its significance for the socio-economic growth of rural areas. The object of the study is the process of planning the creation and operation of agricultural enterprises in modern economic conditions. The purpose of the work is to summarize the scientific provisions and results of previous studies on the role of business planning in improving the efficiency of agricultural enterprises and forming the sustainable development of rural communities. The methodological basis of the study consists of analytical, comparative, logical-systemic, and generalization methods, which are used to systematize scientific sources, identify common patterns, and compare Ukrainian and foreign experience in business planning. A tabular method was used to visualize the results, which made it possible to present the generalizations in a clear form. The study found that business planning promotes the efficient use of resources, shapes the economic stability of agricultural enterprises, and has a positive impact on the development of rural areas. It was found that enterprises that plan their activities taking into account financial, environmental, and social factors have higher performance indicators and achieve a faster return on investment. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of using the obtained generalizations to improve the business plans of agricultural enterprises, increase the efficiency of their activities, and stimulate entrepreneurship in rural areas.

WARTIME PEOPLE MANAGEMENT: UKRAINE'S CIVIL SERVICE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION EXPERIENCE AND LESSONS FOR RESILIENCE

2025-12-04T12:06:32+00:00

The ongoing war in Ukraine presents a unique, critical test for public administration, accelerating the need for digital transformation within the civil service. The purpose of this paper is to explore the transformation of HRM practices in Ukraine's Civil Service in the context of rapid digitalization and crisis, identifying the specific challenges of adapting EU-aligned digital HR models and evaluating their contribution to organizational resilience during wartime. Methodology. The research is based on a comparative policy analysis of the ongoing civil service reform framework and a qualitative synthesis of secondary data (official reports from the National Agency of Ukraine on Civil Service (NACS), legislative acts, and recent academic literature). The study employs a structured approach to examine the implementation of key digital tools, such as the electronic HR information system (HRIS) and online professional development platforms, specifically analyzing their applicability and effectiveness in environments characterized by infrastructural instability and workforce displacement. Key Findings and Results. The results highlight a strategic, albeit resource-constrained, shift towards employee-centered digitalization, driven by the need for transparency and continuity. While digital tools have successfully streamlined recruitment and performance monitoring (critical for EU alignment), their full operationalization faces significant limitations due to infrastructural constraints, acute security risks (cybersecurity), and the necessity of rapid legal alignment with martial law provisions. The paper concludes that hybrid HR systems–combining robust global technological solutions with flexible, localized modules–represent the most promising and resilient approach for maintaining state functions. Practical Implications and Value. The findings offer evidence-based recommendations for public institutions operating in active conflict zones or other severely disrupted environments, emphasizing the necessity of integrating technological innovation with strategies for ensuring psychological safety and human capital adaptability. This study contributes to the literature on public sector crisis management by offering an original, timely analysis of how a national civil service is advancing digital transformation and strategic HRM, not despite, but because of, a major geopolitical disruption.

THE EVOLUTION AND INFLUENCE OF THE HONG KONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION: IMPACTS OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

2025-12-04T12:06:32+00:00

The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) stands as a testament to the intricate interplay between international trade and financial management. Founded in the mid-19th century primarily to facilitate commerce between Europe and China, HSBC has transformed significantly into one of the globe's largest banking and financial services entities, spanning over 55 countries. With approximately 40 million clients and a workforce of around 235,000, HSBC serves as a pivotal player in monitoring and adapting to fluctuating economic landscapes while providing essential banking services. This evolution has been propelled by strategic expansion, notable acquisitions, and a diverse portfolio that encompasses retail, commercial, global, and private banking. This article investigates HSBC's emergence as a global banking powerhouse, analyzing its interrelation with international trade dynamics and the consequential effects of exchange rate fluctuations. HSBC's core activities in international finance include facilitating cross-border transactions and providing trade finance services, segments that account for over 20% of its revenues and represent vital links to global commerce. The examination reveals that a correlation exists between HSBC's financial performance and the volume of international trade, underscored by historical data reflecting revenue trends relative to global export variations. Moreover, the influence of exchange rate movements poses distinct challenges for HSBC, impacting profits and necessitating robust risk management strategies. Strategies such as currency hedging and diverse geographical operations have been adopted to mitigate currency risk, demonstrating HSBC's proactive approach to navigating the complexities of the international financial landscape. Additionally, the bank’s liquidity management frameworks emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate cash reserves and employing stress testing to withstand potential economic shocks. This analysis culminates in recommendations for HSBC to reinforce its market position, including prioritizing digital transformation, diversifying revenue streams in emerging markets, and enhancing risk management practices concerning forex volatility. By adapting to the fast-evolving global landscape, HSBC can ensure its sustained relevance and operational efficacy in a competitive banking ecosystem. This exploration of HSBC serves not only to illuminate the factors influencing its historical and current operations but also reflects broader trends applicable to the global finance sector at large.

THE INTEGRATION OF TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

2025-12-04T12:06:32+00:00

This article analyses the integration of barcode, radio-frequency identification, global navigation satellite and Internet-of-Things sensor technologies into multimodal freight chains and assesses their effects on the operational resilience and economic efficiency of supply networks, with special reference to the Ukrainian logistics sector. The aim is twofold: (i) to quantify the performance benefits that end-to-end visibility solutions deliver and (ii) to identify the technological, organisational and institutional conditions that shape adoption in an emerging-economy context. The methodology combines a systematic literature review, implemented in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, with complementary meta-analytic and qualitative synthesis techniques. Eligible empirical studies were coded against constructs derived from the resource-based view, supply-chain risk-management theory and innovation-diffusion theory. Random-effects meta-analysis generated pooled effect sizes for four logistics performance indicators—inventory days of supply, order-to-delivery lead time, total logistics cost and disruption-recovery duration—while subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored heterogeneity. Qualitative content analysis mapped the resulting adoption drivers and barriers to the Ukrainian operating environment. The findings indicate statistically significant improvements across all performance dimensions (p < 0.05). On average, inventory levels decline by 18 per cent, lead times shorten by 26 per cent, total logistics costs decrease by 7 per cent and post-disruption recovery accelerates by 32 per cent. Studies conducted in transition economies report effect sizes comparable to those in developed markets when hardware deployment is synchronised with enterprise-resource-planning harmonisation and workforce up-skilling. Within Ukraine, diffusion remains uneven; principal obstacles include high capital requirements, rural network-connectivity gaps, legacy information systems and war-related infrastructure degradation. Successful pilot projects share three characteristics: corridor-wide IoT backbones based on GS1 standards, cloud analytics platforms that interoperate with existing ERPs and public–private financing schemes that pool fixed costs for small carriers. Conclusions. Tracking technologies yield measurable resilience and efficiency gains, yet such gains materialise only when complementary digital, organisational and regulatory capabilities are present. The study proposes a phased adoption roadmap that prioritises (1) national IoT infrastructure along export corridors, (2) modular cloud-based data architectures to lower entry barriers and (3) integration of visibility requirements into post-conflict reconstruction programmes and EU alignment efforts. The findings furnish an evidence-based framework for managerial investment decisions and policy initiatives aimed at modernising logistics under financial constraint and geopolitical uncertainty.

THEORETICAL PRINCIPLES FOR DETERMINING THE PRINCIPLES OF ENSURING SOCIO-ECONOMIC SECURITY AS THE BASIS OF THE COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINIAN ENTERPRISES UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF DIGITALIZATION

2025-12-04T12:06:32+00:00

The purpose of this article is to study and identify groups of principles of ensuring socio-economic security under the conditions of digitalization; the formation of ways of ensuring socio-economic security of enterprises as a prerequisite for increasing competitiveness. The analysis of the approaches of scientists to determining the principles of ensuring social and economic security of enterprises is set forth in the article; a group of principles of ensuring socio-economic security as a prerequisite for the formation of competitive advantages of Ukrainian enterprises is specified; the emphasis is laid on threats to the socio-economic security of enterprises; arrangements to ensure socio-economic security of enterprises are worked out. Methodology. In the article, general scientific methods that allowed achieving the set goal and the formed tasks are used, among them: theoretical generalization; abstract-logical; comparison; grouping; systematization ones. The application of theoretical generalization and comparison methods has afforded the opportunity to analyze, consider, and determine the special aspects of existing approaches of scientists to the formation of principles of social and economic security of enterprises, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of their use at enterprises. The grouping method and the abstract-logical method give an option of singling out a group of principles for ensuring social and economic security and determine the impact of security on the competitiveness of enterprises. On the basis reasoning from the systematization of the results obtained, threats to the social and economic security of enterprises were identified, and arrangements to ensure it were formed. Results. It was established that ensuring social and economic security at enterprises plays an important role, as it affects the stability of economic activity, the efficiency of functioning, development areas, personnel policy, employee motivation and, accordingly, allows the formation of competitive advantages. The results of the study proved that social and economic security contributes to the growth of competitiveness, the protection of the enterprise from threats of the market environment. It was determined that there is a need for ensuring social and economic security at enterprises, which requires the introduction of appropriate means. The necessity of using a certain group of principles for ensuring socio-economic security has been proven, which play an important role in forming the desired level of security, which, in its turn, impacts the adaptation of the enterprise to risks, the external environment, ensures sustainable functioning, and the formation of competitive advantages. Threats to the socio-economic security of the enterprise have been identified and arrangements have been developed to increase it. Practical impacts. Compliance with the principles of ensuring socio-economic security at enterprises makes it possible to manage risks, quickly identify threats, adapt to digital transformations, changes, ensure stability and transparency of the labor market, and also contribute to the formation of a safety-related business in terms of supporting sustainable development goals. For another thing, forming socio-economic security on the grounds of observance of the formed group of principles contributes to effective management, growth in performance indicators. Value / originality. A group of principles for ensuring socio-economic security has been formed in the paper, threats to the security of the enterprise has been identified. Recommendations have been developed for ensuring socio-economic security, which will contribute to increasing competitiveness. Giving consideration to the proposed group of principles is the basis for the formation of socio-economic security, successful use of systems, mechanisms, risk management, identification of threats, adaptation to market changes.

METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO MANAGING RESOURCE PROVISION IN THE TOURISM THROUGH PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: THE CASE OF UKRAINE AND THE CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPEAN REGION

2025-12-04T12:06:31+00:00

The tourism sector represents a strategically important component of the socio-economic development of Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, contributing to employment, regional cohesion, heritage preservation, and international cultural exchange. However, contemporary challenges – including geopolitical instability, global economic fluctuations, and post-pandemic restructuring – have intensified competition for financial, human, infrastructural, and cultural resources in the tourism industry. These pressures are especially evident in Ukraine, where the consequences of war have significantly disrupted tourism infrastructure, investment flows, and destination management. Against this background, public-private partnerships (PPPs) have gained increasing recognition as a mechanism capable of mobilising additional resources, strengthening institutional capacity, and promoting long-term resilience in the tourism sector. The purpose of this study is to develop a methodological framework for assessing and managing resource provision in the tourism sector through PPPs, with a comparative focus on Ukraine and selected CEE countries (Poland, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia). The research applies a mixed-method approach, combining statistical data analysis (Eurostat, OECD, WTTC, DESI) with expert evaluation to construct an Integrated Resource Effectiveness Index (IRET). The index incorporates five key resource dimensions: financial, infrastructural, human, innovation and digital, and natural-cultural. The comparative assessment demonstrates a clear regional differentiation: Poland and Czechia exhibit strong institutional systems for PPP implementation and high levels of tourism resource efficiency, while Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Hungary, and Slovakia show moderate but stable performance supported by digital transformation and targeted public investment. Ukraine, by contrast, remains at a transitional stage, with emerging but uneven PPP development, constrained financing, and limited integration of digital destination management tools. The findings emphasise that strengthening PPP frameworks can play a pivotal role in rebuilding tourism infrastructure, diversifying investment sources, and enabling sustainable resource utilisation in Ukraine. The study contributes to the academic literature by offering a comprehensive resource-based evaluation model that captures both quantitative performance indicators and institutional governance factors. Practically, the research provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, including the development of regional PPP support centres, blended-finance instruments, and digital platforms for monitoring tourism resource management. These strategic measures can support Ukraine’s medium-term transition toward a more resilient and competitive tourism system within the broader CEE context.

FEATURES OF DEVELOPING A DIGITAL PRODUCT CONCEPT USING A VALUE-BASED APPROACH

2025-12-04T12:06:31+00:00

The purpose of this article is to conduct a comprehensive study of contemporary approaches to the formation of digital product concepts in marketing, with an emphasis on their advantages, disadvantages, and methodological features. Particular attention is paid to the theoretical and practical justification of the feasibility of transitioning to a value-oriented approach, which is considered as a means of improving the process of developing digital product concepts. The article proposes an integrated model that allows for the effective combination of existing value development tools and modern organizational and technological solutions for creating competitive digital solutions. Methodology. The article uses theoretical and methodological analysis of literary sources devoted to the concept of digital products and services, as well as a comparative review of the most common approaches to value creation in the digital environment. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the impact of organizational models, modern digital business processes, and technological solutions on the value design process. The proposed approach is based on a critical rethinking of existing theories and models (in particular, Value Proposition Canvas, Jobs-to-be-Done, Kano Model) combined with an analysis of the real practices of digital companies, which allows synthesizing our own integrated methodology for improving the concept of digital products. Results. Application of the proposed framework results in a comprehensive and iterative process for digital product concept development, which systematically integrates user needs, business model validation, and feature prioritization. The methodology enables IT companies to identify and prioritize features that maximize user satisfaction (as measured by the Kano model) while balancing resource constraints and market realities. The developed Integrated Canvas for Digital Product Value Definition allows for the creation of clear, actionable product concepts optimized for both user value and practical feasibility. The adaptability of the framework supports iterative refinement in response to new data or shifting organizational capabilities. Practical implications. The framework offers a structured pathway to minimize the risks associated with misalignment between product features, user expectations, and company resources. By deeply embedding user value through interdisciplinary techniques and continuous validation, IT companies can decrease time-to-market, lower the rate of product failures, and more efficiently allocate development resources. The approach also facilitates cross-functional collaboration and informed decision-making in fast-paced digital environments. Value / originality. The originality of this work lies in its integration of established methodologies – JTBD, VPC, and the Kano model – within a unified, actionable, and iterative canvas tailored for digital product development. By systematically balancing user-centric value creation with realistic assessments of economic and organizational constraints, this article provides a novel, comprehensive solution to one of the central challenges in digital marketing and product management. The framework offers significant theoretical and practical advances, supporting greater agility, innovation, and success in digital product development for IT companies.

THE ROLE OF UKRAINIAN ENTREPRENEURS IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR COOPERATION WITH THE UNITED STATES

2025-12-04T12:06:31+00:00

Relevance of the research is determined by the need for Ukrainian businesses to adapt to global shifts in the structure of production and logistics chains, which are undergoing significant transformation due to military aggression, growing geoeconomic competition, and the technological reorientation of global power centers. In the context of the West’s drive to diversify supply chains and build resilient partnerships - particularly through nearshoring and friendshoring mechanisms - there arises a need to assess the potential of Ukrainian entrepreneurs to integrate into the renewed architecture of supply networks. Deepening cooperation with the United States is seen as a key driver for the modernization of Ukraine’s industrial sector and the strengthening of transatlantic economic relations. The aim of the research is to examine the involvement of Ukrainian entrepreneurs in the transformation of global supply chains and to identify current directions of strategic cooperation with the United States, taking into account existing challenges and market prospects. Research methodology is based on the application of a systems approach, institutional analysis, comparative methods, and case studies of real economic cooperation between Ukrainian companies and international partners. Data have been synthesized from open-source analytical materials, government reports, and corporate strategies. Research results reflect the gradual adaptation of Ukrainian businesses to the requirements of new global logistics configurations, particularly through process digitalization, implementation of international standards (ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 27701), and the development of production clusters oriented toward Western markets. It has been revealed that cooperation with the U.S. is shifting from a traditional export model to partnership-based integration in key sectors such as critical infrastructure, IT, pharmaceuticals, and energy. Conclusions confirm the existence of considerable, though partially realized, potential for Ukrainian enterprises in the emerging supply chain system. It has been established that the realization of this potential requires systemic changes in infrastructure, institutional regulation, and international technical compliance. Prospects for further research involve an in-depth analysis of mechanisms for engaging small and medium-sized enterprises in transatlantic supply chains, as well as an assessment of the impact of regulatory changes in cybersecurity, export control, and certification on the dynamics of Ukrainian-American economic cooperation.