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The Impact of Digitalization on the Three Pillars of Sustainable Development: An Empirical Analysis in the Context of African Countries

Author

Listed:
  • Samar Rezgui

    (Faculty of Legal, Economic and Management Sciences of Jendouba, University of Jendouba, Tunisia)

  • Sayef Bakari

    (LIEI, Faculty of Economic Sciences and Management of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunisia; Faculty of Legal, Economic and Management Sciences of Jendouba, University of Jendouba, Tunisia)

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of digitalization on the three pillars of sustainable development - economic, social, and environmental - in 48 African countries from 1999 to 2020. Using panel data analysis and ARDL models, the research reveals a bidirectional positive relationship between digitalization and economic growth in the long term, underscoring digitalization's role in driving innovation and productivity. However, no significant causal link is found between digitalization and human development, indicating that digital transformation alone cannot address social inequalities without complementary investments in education and healthcare. Digitalization also positively influences environmental quality in the long term, though restrictive environmental policies may slow digital infrastructure expansion. In the short term, digitalization's impact on sustainable development is limited, highlighting the need for sustained investment and strategic planning. The study emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach to maximize digitalization's potential for inclusive and sustainable development in Africa.

Suggested Citation

  • Samar Rezgui & Sayef Bakari, 2025. "The Impact of Digitalization on the Three Pillars of Sustainable Development: An Empirical Analysis in the Context of African Countries," Economic Research Guardian, Mutascu Publishing, vol. 15(1), pages 62-87, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wei:journl:v:15:y:2025:i:1:p:62-87
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Digitalization; Sustainable Development; Economic Growth; Environmental Quality; Human Development; Africa; Panel Data Analysis; ARDL Model; Cointegration;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa
    • C33 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth

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