Cybersecurity and smart innovation for rural resilience: Moldova’s strategic transition to green and digital villages

In the context of rapid digital transformation, both urban and rural communities are rethinking their development strategies through the adoption of smart technologies aimed at increasing resilience, inclusion and security. This study proposes a comprehensive framework for promoting smart cities and smart villages, with particular emphasis on cybersecurity as a fundamental pillar of socio-technical resilience. The study focuses on strengthening regional cybersecurity in the Republic of Moldova within the framework of Interreg programs, emphasizing their relevance for building secure digital ecosystems. The study examines European experiences, best practices and case studies related to digital transformation in rural areas, focusing on innovative ways to implement cybersecurity. Special attention is given to the integration of secure digital solutions into smart village initiatives to reduce cyber risks and enhance cyber defense capabilities, particularly in the agro-industrial sector of the regional economy of Moldova. A strategic roadmap for developing secure, interconnected and adaptive socio-technical systems for urban and rural areas is outlined, highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in protecting critical sectors such as agriculture, energy and utilities. Key strategies include infrastructure modernization, alignment with EU standards (e.g. NIS2) and enhancing digital literacy. Additionally, the transformative role of AI, the agricultural Internet of Things (AIoT) and data-driven automation in boosting agricultural productivity and rural development, while underscoring the need for secure-by-design digital ecosystems. The study examines the cross-sectoral potential of digital innovation, provides some recommendations for sustainable development and demonstrates, for example, how integrated digital solutions such as agrovoltaics, smart energy and AI can improve resilience, cybersecurity and economic sustainability in rural areas, supporting the Republic of Moldova’s strategic transition to a safe, green and digital future.