DigiAgrar_UA
Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development: German-Ukrainian Perspectives for Future Agricultural and Food Systems in Europe
Thematic complex: Diffusion of innovations and knowledge
Project duration: 01.01.2025 - 31.12.2025
Investigated countries: Ukraine, Germany, European Union
The project addresses the societal challenge of digital transformation in the agriculture and food sector, especially in times of crisis such as the current situation in Ukraine. Digitalization offers potential for more sustainable and competitive agriculture, but faces challenges such as data security, digital inequalities, and economic framework conditions.
The project pursues four closely interconnected goals, focusing on scientific, societal, and practical aspects:
- Promoting international exchange on the current status, challenges, and perspectives of digital transformation in the agricultural and food sectors in Ukraine and Germany
- Strengthening the knowledge base and expanding the understanding of the factors and instruments that promote digital innovations
- Promoting scientific discussion on the development of innovative solutions and strategic measures for digital transformation to strengthen competitiveness, resilience, and the reconstruction of the agricultural sector in Ukraine
- Improving the multifaceted dialogue with representatives from business, politics, and civil society through workshops and expert talks to discuss key thematic issues from a two-country perspective, derive lessons learned and disseminate the results through intensive press and public relations work
The central research questions are: What are the drivers of digitalization in Ukrainian agriculture? How does digital transformation impact the sustainability of agricultural systems? What political measures are necessary to minimize the risks of digitalization and maximize its opportunities?
The research design adopts an interdisciplinary approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. At the heart of the project is a three-day workshop in Germany (10 - 12 November 2025), bringing together German and Ukrainian stakeholders from academia, practice, and society. The workshop program also includes a field trip to the AGRITECHNICA trade fair in Hanover, Germany, on 12 November 2025. To support the preparation and follow-up of this event, research stays are planned for early-career Ukrainian and German scientists at partner institutions in Germany and Ukraine, subject to the prevailing security conditions. These activities will be complemented by a series of online expert talks featuring renowned international specialists in digitization and innovation processes.
https://www.iamo.de/en/research/research-projects/details/digiagrar-ua