Digital transformation of sports infrastructure public management to enhance resilience and adaptability in emergency situations

• Published in: Theory and Practice of Public Administration Vol. 2; no. 79
• Main Authors: Stativka, Nataliia, Bodnar, Kateryna
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 31.12.2024
• ISSN: 1727-6667
• DOI: 10.26565/1727-6667-2024-2-13

The article explores the potential of digital transformation in public governance of sports infrastructure to enhance Ukraine’s resilience and adaptability to contemporary security challenges, including Russian aggression, hybrid threats, and the uncertainty of post-war recovery. Based on a synthesis of theoretical foundations in sustainable development, smart city concepts, e-governance, and strategic adaptability, an analytical framework is developed for assessing the benefits and risks of integrating advanced digital solutions into sports facility management systems. The study systematizes recent international practices in employing the Internet of Things, big data, artificial intelligence, and digital twins to improve the governance of sports infrastructure during natural disasters, technological accidents, terrorist attacks, pandemics, and hybrid conflicts. The research identifies the synergistic effects of «smartifying» sports facilities to strengthen urban resilience and engage citizens and businesses in collaborative crisis management. Key challenges and prerequisites for successful digital transformation are highlighted, including the need for systemic institutional reforms, capacity-building, data protection, and the development of collaborative ecosystems. Priority areas and mechanisms for digitalizing sports infrastructure management in Ukraine are outlined, such as adopting modularity principles, deploying smart safety systems, creating municipal and regional integrated management platforms, and enhancing the digital skills of personnel. The study proposes conceptual foundations for a national model of digital transformation of sports infrastructure, emphasizing strategic state vision, multi-level stakeholder partnerships, innovative financing tools, and citizen engagement in value co-creation. The findings affirm that digitalizing sports infrastructure governance based on resilience, adaptability, and inclusivity can become a cornerstone of Ukraine’s ability to effectively address current and future security challenges while laying the groundwork for post-war recovery.