Features of public procurement digitalization

Abstract

The article examines current trends in the digitalization of public procurement in Ukraine, in particular through the implementation of the ProZorro electronic system and the functionality on the “Diya” platform. It reveals how digital tools contribute to increasing transparency, competitiveness, and the efficiency of using budget funds. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the impact of digital technologies on compliance with the principles of openness and equal access of all participants to tender procedures. Issues of protecting human rights in the context of digital transformation are raised, in particular, guaranteeing access to participation in procurement for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as compliance with requirements for confidentiality and security of personal data. The main risks associated with cybersecurity, technical flaws of platforms, possibilities of manipulation and corruption abuses are outlined. A set of measures is proposed to improve the functionality of ProZorro and “Diya”, including adaptation of the regulatory framework, increasing the digital literacy of market participants, and strengthening control over compliance with openness standards. It is argued that a harmonious combination of innovation, legal regulation and ethical standards is the key to creating a fair and transparent public procurement system in the digital economy.

The paper also highlights existing problems accompanying the digitalization process, including: technical limitations of digital platforms, insufficient level of digital literacy of procurement participants, gaps in data protection legislation, as well as new corruption risks arising from the automation of procedures.

Based on the analysis, a number of practical recommendations are proposed to improve the functioning of the ProZorro and “Diya” systems. Among them: improving the regulatory framework taking into account European standards, implementing effective control and audit mechanisms, strengthening information security, expanding training and support opportunities for system users, as well as developing public monitoring mechanisms.