Trust, Identity, and Institutional Innovation: Rethinking Social Resilience in the Digital Era

Abstract

The acceleration of digital transformation, combined with shifting cultural landscapes and complex societal challenges, calls for a redefinition of the foundations of resilient societies. This article examines the nexus of social trust, cultural identity, and institutional adaptability through a transdisciplinary lens. It argues that the sustainability of modernization processes—particularly in Central and Eastern Europe—depends not solely on technological capacity but also on the strength of local heritage, participatory governance, and trust-driven public engagement. Drawing on empirical studies from Hungary, Romania, and comparative frameworks such as Society 5.0 and the Triple Helix, the paper proposes an integrated model of innovation rooted in collective memory, civic responsibility, and strategic education.