Digitalization and cybersecurity of critical infrastructure enterprises according to EU standards

Introduction. Modern challenges to the security and development of states in the context of globalization, digital transformation and hybrid threats necessitate a rethinking of approaches to critical infrastructure management. Enterprises in this area are the basis for the life support of society, the functioning of the economy, public administration and national security. Scientific understanding of digitalization and cyber protection of critical infrastructure based on European standards is a timely and socially significant task that requires a comprehensive approach and a clear setting of development priorities. Problem Statement. There is a need to study and adapt the European regulatory environment to Ukrainian realities, as well as develop strategic approaches to digital development and protection of critical infrastructure enterprises. One of the tools for such development can be SMART analysis, which allows you to formulate specific goals, assess risks and build a strategic model of digital transition taking into account security challenges. The purpose is to substantiate approaches to digitalization and cyber protection of critical infrastructure enterprises of Ukraine based on the adaptation of European regulatory standards. Methods. A comprehensive methodology was used, covering system analysis, comparative legal analysis, content analysis of publications, expert assessment, as well as SMART analysis as a tool for strategic planning of digital transformations. A comparative analysis of the EU and Ukraine’s approaches to digital security was carried out, identifying regulatory discrepancies, barriers to harmonization and potential integration points. Results. The possibilities of digitalization and cyber protection of critical infrastructure enterprises of Ukraine were studied, taking into account modern security challenges and the European integration vector of state policy. An analysis of the regulatory and legal principles of digital transformation in the European Union was carried out, which form the basis of regulation in the field of artificial intelligence, digital platforms, personal data and cybersecurity. The potential of these acts for the formation of a sustainable, transparent and inclusive digital infrastructure in Ukraine is revealed. The practical conditions for the implementation of reforms are determined: the phased integration of standards, international support, the development of the regulatory environment and considerations related to industry specifics. The emphasis is also placed on the need for inter-institutional coordination and the development of human capital in the field of digital security. Conclusions. Current EU approaches, in particular in the field of digital sovereignty, ethical regulation of artificial intelligence, protection of personal data and transparency of algorithms, are the basis for the formation of a sustainable digital ecosystem in Ukraine. The research materials can be used to develop strategic documents in the field of digitalization, adapt domestic legislation to EU norms, form a national policy in the field of digital transformation, develop anti-crisis management, as well as further scientific research in the field of cybersecurity, public administration and protection of critical systems.