PRIORITY DIRECTIONS FOR PREVENTING THREATS TO UKRAINE'S ECONOMIC SECURITY IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITALISATION

Abstract

The article examines the dual impact of digitalisation on Ukraine's economic security, which is manifested both in stimulating innovative development and in exacerbating cyber threats and infrastructure vulnerabilities. The author substantiates the need to develop a strategically oriented state policy that would allow simultaneously using the benefits of digitalisation and minimising its threats. It is determined that current challenges require not only investment in ICT, but also active harmonisation of the legal framework with European standards, development of digital literacy of the population and strengthening of international integration in the security sector. The authors have adapted the methods of prioritisation used in the commercial sector to the aspects of state strategy development. Using prioritisation methods such as RICE, the Value vs. Effort matrix and the Kano model, the study assesses the most impactful and feasible areas for strengthening economic security. The study identifies harmonisation of regulatory frameworks, development of digital literacy, institutional integration into EU security structures and investment in cybersecurity as top priorities. These directions are seen as offering the greatest benefits with moderate implementation efforts. The article emphasises the importance of strategic planning and flexible management of digital transformations, focused on the long-term sustainability of Ukraine's economy and its effective integration into global markets. The author emphasises the need to avoid prescriptive regulation, preferring to develop self-regulating market environments that are capable of maintaining security in the digital economy on their own. Emphasis is placed on adapting international practices, especially those of the European Union, whose regulatory framework serves as a regional benchmark. The paper concludes that Ukraine needs to adopt a strategically focused, multi-level model of economic security that balances innovation incentives with threats mitigation. This approach should aim not only to protect critical infrastructure and economic institutions, but also to foster a secure, competitive digital environment conducive to long-term resilience and integration into global markets.