Wpływ polityki regionalnej na poziomie NUTS 2 na rozwój gospodarki cyfrowej w Polsce
Regional policy at the NUTS 2 Level and its impact on the development of the digital economy in Poland

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the role of regional policy in shaping the development of the digital economy in Poland, with a focus on the NUTS 2 level (voivodeships). Its main objective is to assess the extent to which regional development strategies incorporate issues related to digital transformation, and to evaluate how closely they align with the actual level of digital development across regions. The study employs two complementary approaches: a qualitative analysis of 16 regional strategies for the period up to 2030, and a quantitative analysis based on selected statistical indicators related to digital infrastructure, competencies, and employment in high-tech sectors. The qualitative part involves classifying regions according to the presence and intensity of references to key components of the digital economy, such as infrastructure, digital education, e-services, and the technological transformation of enterprises. The quantitative analysis draws on six diagnostic indicators, which were normalized and aggregated into a synthetic digital development index. Using the Jenks natural breaks method, three levels of digital development were identified: high, medium, and low. The comparative analysis highlights regions where strategic planning is consistent with actual development, as well as those where significant discrepancies exist. The results indicate that regional policy can play different roles: reinforcing (in digitally advanced regions), aspirational (in those aiming to catch up), or marginal (where digital themes are insufficiently addressed in strategic documents). The article also discusses the study’s limitations, including the temporal mismatch between strategic documents and statistical data, the limited set of indicators used, and the exclusion of other levels of public policy. Future research directions include correlation analysis, evaluation of policy implementation, and more in-depth institutional and territorial studies. The findings contribute to the ongoing debate on the effectiveness of regional policy as an instrument for supporting digital transformation in Poland.

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