Digital government: Delivering services and the SDGs

Have you experienced the ease of switching from paper forms to online forms and tracking their progress? E-government offers many such conveniences, ensuring the most vulnerable can access essential services. With the launch of the new E-Government Survey 2024, Vincenzo Aquaro, Chief of Digital Government Branch in UN DESA’s Division for Public Institutions and Digital Government, describes the benefits and challenges of e-government. 

How does e-government help us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

“The concept of e-government or digital government is no longer new but is becoming progressively more complex with the advent of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).

At the same time, the imperative to digitalize institutions and public services has never been more urgent. This is particularly critical given the complex nature of shocks, crises and other challenges, in particular the effects of intersecting and compounding crises related to food, fuel, health and sustainable development. 

Digital government plays an important role in accelerating the implementation of the SDGs. By leveraging technology, governments can become more effective, inclusive and accountable, strengthening service provision and accessibility and contributing to the achievement of all 17 SDGs.” 

Can you tell us more about the innovations used by the top-ranked countries that make their digital governance effective? 

“The top-ranked countries in the UN E-Government Survey 2024 are distinguished by their innovative digital governance frameworks. 

Some countries are delivering a wide range of online services and fostering e-participation, while others lead on integrated digital ID systems. We also see nations who are spearheading initiatives, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI, data analytics and the Internet of things (IoT) to enhance public services. Countries have also developed open data platforms that promote transparency and provide easy access to government datasets, fostering greater trust in government actions. 

We also see significant investments being made in digital infrastructure, e-services and smart technologies, as well as in digital development by moving public data and services to secure cloud platforms, while maintaining uninterrupted internet connectivity via satellite connections. AI-driven platforms are also transforming services such as smart waste management and public safety.”

What can countries who face hurdles in implementing e-government do to leverage its strengths and bridge the digital divide?

“While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, the UN E-Government Survey 2024 highlights key drivers to strengthen capacities and bridge the digital divide. The digital transformation journey is fueled by political will.

At the same time, improving the legislative environment for digital development, particularly on frontier technologies like AI, cloud, open data licensing and digital identity, can benefit all countries.

Regional and international collaborations are essential for driving digital transformation, emphasizing the need for strategic regional and sub-regional frameworks and roadmaps to create an integrated digital economy across nations. 

Investment in ICT infrastructure, public-private partnerships and digital public infrastructure programs are expanding broadband networks, ensuring reliable and accessible digital services. E-government platforms are transforming citizen-government interactions, promoting transparency, citizen engagement and service delivery. These efforts are bridging social and economic gaps, fostering inclusive development and poverty reduction across nations.

Data governance is also becoming increasingly important, with regulatory frameworks focusing on data protection and cybersecurity to ensure safe digital platforms and protect citizen data.

Widespread mobile penetration combined with a generation of young people increasingly comfortable with new technologies, offers a unique opportunity for rapid digital adoption, driving e-government services and financial inclusion. Increasing investments in human capital, particularly in STEM education, are equipping the workforce for the demands of the digital economy. Various initiatives are focused on improving digital literacy and providing technical training, ensuring that vulnerable groups, such as women and youth, can fully participate in the digital revolution. 

Last but not least, improving e-participation policies and practices is essential for advancing e-government development globally.” 

Read the E-Government Survey 2024 here: https://bit.ly/EGovSurvey

UN Photo/Evan Schneider