The impact of key global megatrends on the development of the European Innovation Area and sustainable infrastructure projects

Abstract

At the current stage of the development of the global economy, innovation is becoming increasingly important as a determining factor of competitiveness and economic growth. The idea of ​​a common innovation space in Europe arose as a response to the fragmentation of national innovation systems and the desire to increase the global competitiveness of the European Union. It is determined that European innovation spaces are deeply shaped by global megatrends: accelerating technological change, urgent climate and energy transition, significant demographic changes and growing geopolitical fragmentation. The purpose of this article is to analyze the impact of global megatrends on the development of the European innovation space and sustainable infrastructure projects. The research was conducted using the following methods: monographic, analysis and synthesis, comparison, statistical analysis, generalization. Results. The article identifies key global megatrends: technological change, climate change and energy transition, demographic change, geopolitical fragmentation and changes in globalization, inequality and their impact on innovation. Key factors influencing European innovation ecosystems are identified. Promising niches in which EU countries can be leaders are characterized. Areas of cooperation between Ukraine and EU countries through multilateral platforms are identified. Conclusions. It has been established that megatrends create both challenges (geoeconomic fragmentation, inequality) and opportunities (reshaping value chains, emergence in dual-use technologies niches, green innovations), stimulating the adaptation of European ecosystems through transfer to friendly countries and risk reduction. The experience of the European Research Area can be used to modernize the Ukrainian innovation system, overcome challenges (e.g. war, lack of funding), and deepen cooperation through joint funding, reforms, and integration into European hubs.