Comparative analysis of the innovation structure of European Union countries in 2017-2024

Purpose:The aim of this work is to analyze and assess the innovativeness of EU countries and regions in the years 2017-2024, which allows for determining its level and comparing it in various aspects.Design/methodology/approach: The work uses a number of research methods, including the method of analysis and criticism of literature, statistical methods and the method of analysis and logical construction.Findings: The article presents the results of a comparative analysis of the level of innovation of the European Union Member States.It indicates the leaders of innovation in the group of countries and regions and presents the growth and decline in the most important dimensions.The analysis shows that the leaders of innovation in the EU are: Denmark, Sweden, Finland and the Netherlands, with the largest increase in the summary innovation indicator recorded in Lithuania, Cyprus and Poland (EIS 2024).Research limitations/implications: In the future, the analysis could be expanded to include a comparison of the level of overall innovation with the level of eco-innovation in individual countries.Such an approach would allow for a better understanding of how EU countries cope with implementing innovations that support environmental protection and sustainable development. Practical implications:The presented analysis of the innovativeness of the European Union countries allows not only to identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual countries, but also to indicate possible directions of development, the implementation of which may contribute to increasing their competitiveness and efficiency.The conclusions drawn from the analysis also support better use of the research and development potential in practice, supporting the implementation of innovative solutions in the area of economy and environment.Social implications: The analysis of innovation in the European Union states indicates areas requiring support and development, which are key to improving the quality of life of citizens.Research enables better use of research and development potential, which translates into economic progress, environmental protection and increased innovation in society.Originality/value: The article brings new value to the analysis of innovation in EU countries and regions, presenting the level of innovation in EU Member States over the years 2017-2024.Analysis of the level of innovation in individual countries, based on appropriate indicators, allows to identify areas requiring intervention and assess the effectiveness of previous actions for the development of innovation.Thanks to this, it is possible to indicate specific directions of development and recommendations that can contribute to increasing the competitiveness of individual countries on the international arena.