Abstract
The article is the editorial of the journal’s special issue on digital transformation in BRICS and analyzes how the last decade of digital transformation has brought to light both the benefits and the risks associated with the massive adoption of digital technologies. It highlights how meaningful connectivity and inclusive digital services and cyber-insurance have emerged as essential factors for sustainable development.
It discusses how few actors understand that digital transformation strategies also represent the essence of digital sovereignty, a concept that involves the ability to regulate and control digital technologies, ensuring self-determination over infrastructure, data and services.
As argued in the paper, the BRICS countries are using digital transformation to strengthen their sovereignty, driven by reasons ranging from overcoming technological dependencies, to stimulating domestic innovation and coping with growing geopolitical tensions. The result not only impacts the state’s ability to exercise authority, but also directly influences the fundamental rights of individuals.