Digitalisation in a global world: international practice and Russian experience

The article examines the conceptual aspects of the digital economy, the prerequisites for development and the basic elements. Economically developed countries have identified the formation of the digital economy as the main priority for further growth and are systematically implementing the ‘digital development agenda’. Despite broad international recognition of the digital economy as a scientific category and as a mainstream of global development, a generally accepted approach to its methodological foundations has not emerged in expert circles. The authors have identified some common positions with regard to digital technologies, which in modern conditions are seen as a driving force for accelerating economic growth, increasing labour productivity, and as an infrastructural component of the national innovation system of the state. The article identifies factors for the development of the digital economy, including public policy, legislative framework, human capital, and the system of fundamental and applied research. Based on the analysis of statistical data and development forecasts, the authors assess trends in the development of the digital economy in the world, as well as possible negative consequences for Russia’s socio-economic development. It is shown that digitalisation and, in particular, the emergence of Industry 4.0 will significantly change existing labour relations, force a revision of the education and training system, and restructure the system of social protection of citizens.