DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT BODIES AS A TOOL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article examines the digital transformation of local governments as a key tool for ensuring sustainable devel- opment of territorial communities in Ukraine. The relevance of the topic is substantiated in the context of deepening decentralization processes, increasing the scope of community powers, and increasing public expectations regarding the quality of public services, especially in the context of military challenges and post-war reconstruction. The state of digital transformation is analyzed according to the Digital Transformation Index of Ukrainian Regions, uneven development between regions is identified, and the main factors influencing the effectiveness of the implementation of electronic services, the “paperless” regime, ASCs, digital education, and analytical platforms are identified. The paper focuses on the institutional capacity of local governments, the role of technological infrastructure, and citizen involvement in governance processes. It is established that effective digitalization contributes to increasing transpar- ency in decision-making, optimizing resource use, strengthening social trust, and developing the local economy. At the same time, problems of fragmented implementation of digital tools, imbalance between the regulatory framework and technological potential, as well as low digital competence of personnel were identified. A conceptual model of digital transformation was proposed, which involves a combination of three blocks: technological infrastructure, institutional capacity and social dimension. Areas of improvement were identified, which include the development of local digital platforms, integration of municipal services, implementation of e-democracy tools and ensuring cybersecurity. The results of the study indicate that the digital transformation of local self-government bodies is a strategic factor in increasing the efficiency of public administration and ensuring the sustainable development of territorial communities.