Artificial intelligence as a driver of public administration modernization in the context of digitalization of social relations

The article explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) as a key driver of public administration transformation in the context of the digitalization of social relations. It analyzes the theoretical foundations for integrating intelligent technologies into the public sector through the lens of digital governance concepts, the algorithmization of administrative processes, and institutional adaptation. The main directions of AI application in public administration are highlighted, including automation of administrative functions, big data analytics, risk forecasting, digital citizen services, and decision support in crisis situations. Special attention is paid to the Ukrainian context of AI implementation, particularly within the framework of national digital transformation strategies (e.g., “Diia.Digital State”). Promising sectors for AI integration are identified: administrative service provision, taxation, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and urban governance. The key conditions for successful AI integration are outlined, including legal and regulatory frameworks, open data infrastructure, development of digital competencies among civil servants, and cross-sectoral partnerships. At the same time, the article highlights major risks and challenges: legal uncertainty, algorithmic bias and discrimination, cybersecurity threats, insufficient digital skills, and ethical dilemmas of delegating decisions to machines. It is argued that the implementation of AI should be understood not only as a technological process but also as a conceptual transformation of public governance toward greater transparency, adaptability, and human-centeredness.