The public organization “Ukrainian Modern Digital Science” co-organized the scientific conference “Social Justice and the Digital Economy 2025”, held within the framework of Cyber Scotland Week.
The event focused on the key challenges of the digital economy, particularly the legal regulation of crypto-assets and artificial intelligence. Experts emphasized that Ukraine must implement modern regulatory mechanisms in these fields, which will contribute to strengthening economic stability and enhancing trust in the financial market amidst global economic shifts.
The conference, organized by the V.M. Mamutov Institute of Economic and Legal Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, took place with the support of the Ukrainian National Bar Association, the NGO “Ukrainian Modern Digital Science”, the Clark Foundation for Legal Education (Scotland), and the International Association for Ethics and Integrity of AI. The event brought together experts in digital finance, cryptocurrencies, sanctions policy, and artificial intelligence.
The regulation of the crypto market was one of the central themes of discussion. Dr. Tetiana Dmytrenko, Head of the NGO “Ukrainian Modern Digital Science” and an international AML expert affiliated with the United Nations, highlighted that the lack of clear legislative norms for crypto-assets poses a threat to Ukraine’s financial stability and complicates the work of international experts. She emphasized the urgent need to develop modern legal standards to enhance transparency in financial operations and incorporate global experience.
Decentralized finance (DeFi) was addressed by James Ramsden KC, a UK-based barrister and international expert in crypto regulation and AML, and Dr. Khrystyna Khanas, a solicitor from the UK. They noted that DeFi protocols present a promising alternative to traditional banking services, especially during periods of economic instability. They also drew attention to the role of stablecoins (USDT, USDC) in preserving asset value in countries with unstable financial systems.
The issue of ethical regulation of artificial intelligence was presented by Artemii Volodin, Vice President of the International Association for Ethics and Integrity of AI, who stressed the necessity of developing international standards for algorithmic decision-making to prevent discrimination and abuse.
A separate panel was dedicated to Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Speakers focused on Russia’s active deployment of the digital ruble for international settlements, particularly with countries seeking to reduce reliance on the US dollar. This was seen as part of a broader strategy to build an alternative financial system. BRICS initiatives, such as the launch of the BRICS PAY payment system and the potential introduction of a gold-backed joint currency, were also discussed for their transformative potential in the global financial landscape.
A panel discussion on the interaction between crypto exchanges and AI featured Oleksandr Chernykh, the representative of the UNBA in the UK and crypto regulation expert; Basil Manousos, head of Strathclyde Forensics (Edinburgh); and Khrystyna Khanas. They highlighted that the absence of virtual asset legislation in Ukraine complicates the imposition of sanctions on individuals involved in money laundering and creates obstacles for international experts operating in Ukraine’s legal framework.
The practical part of the conference included demonstrations of modern technologies. Oleh Shaulko, Legal Director of the London office of international law firm Kennedys, presented an analysis of legal mechanisms for cryptoasset recovery under English law. Additionally, Vladyslav Tsvirkun, a specialist in digital asset tracing, showcased software tools for analyzing crypto transactions that enable effective detection and investigation of illicit financial operations.