The Digital Economy and Sustainable Development Goals: A Predictive Analysis of the Interconnection Between Digitalization and Sustainability in EU Countries

The accelerating pace of digital transformation has positioned the digital economy as a key driver in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the mechanisms through which digitalization influences sustainability remain underexplored. This study examines the extent to which digital progress, captured through the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), impacts sustainable development outcomes across EU member states, measured by the Sustainable Development Goals Index (SDGi). Utilizing data spanning the period 2017–2022, the analysis applies a multi-method approach—combining exploratory factor analysis, multiple regression, artificial neural networks, and predictive modeling—to identify structural relationships and forecast future trends. The findings reveal strong linkages between human capital development, digital technology integration, and SDG performance, while also highlighting significant heterogeneity among EU countries. Forecasts indicate that digitalization is likely to accelerate in the coming years. Still, its contribution to sustainability will depend on the degree to which policy frameworks succeed in fostering inclusive and context-sensitive digital transitions. By integrating empirical precision with predictive insight, this study offers a robust framework for aligning digital transformation with long-term sustainability objectives in a diverse European context.