Analysis of the level of digital development of BRICS countries

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of the transition to the sixth technological paradigm, the digital transformation of economies is becoming a key factor in global development. The active introduction of digital technologies has a systemic impact on the economy, public administration, the social sphere and institutional mechanisms of interaction, which necessitates a comprehensive assessment of the level of digital development of countries. The study analyzes the level of digital development and institutional interactions among the BRICS countries. Goal. The study intends to analyze the activities of the BRICS countries in the field of digital transformation and determine their level of digital development. Materials and methods. The research used methods of analysis and gen­eralization of scientific literature, comparative and statistical analysis. The empirical basis includes data from international ratings and indices, including the Benchmark G5 index, the digital Competitiveness Index, and the global cybersecurity index, which provide a comprehensive assessment of infrastructural, institutional and technological aspects of digital development. Results and discussion. The results of the study revealed significant heterogeneity in digital development within the BRICS alliance. The leaders in this regard are the UAE, Egypt, Brazil, India, and China, while Iran and Ethiopia lag significantly be­hind. Based on the analysis of national digitalization strategies, a set of recommendations has been formed aimed at reducing the digital divide through the development of basic digital infrastructure, expanding access to the Internet and improving digital literacy of the population. Conclusion. The results of the study can be used in developing digital development strategies and deepening institutional cooperation among the BRICS countries in order to reduce digital inequality.