Monday, July 21, 2003

European Commitment to eGovernment In a ministerial declaration proceeding from a European Union meeting in Como, Italy earlier this month, European leaders (my bold and italics): Recognised the role of eGovernment in creating on-line applications and services for the users, favouring in the same time innovative technologies to the benefit of the Information Society. Acknowledged the role of eGovernment as a driver for the modernization of the entire European public sector and as a key in increasing productivity and efficiency of Public Administration, thereby freeing resources and delivering more value for taxpayers money. Underlined that European competitiveness can be strengthened by reducing administrative burden (i.e., red tape) on enterprises and costs for administrations. Emphasised the importance of eGovernment as a means to improve efficiency and transparency in the public sector and the European institutions and thus increase attractiveness for investment. Pointed out the role of eGovernment as a tool for enhancing the quality of life of European citizens through inclusive public services for all. Recognised the relevance of using ICT to develop and enhance new forms of involvement and participation of the citizens in policy definition and decision-making processes. Pointed out the role of eGovernment as a means to achieve a modern European administration through electronic cooperation between different levels of government and across national borders. Recognised the need of close cooperation between European Commission and the European Countries in order to define pan-European standards and to identify and implement effective pan-European online services. Recognised the World Summit on Information Society to be held in Geneva, December 2003 and Tunisia, November 2005, as a unique opportunity for all stakeholders to discuss at global level the establishment of a Global Information Society. Hence, Ministers recommended that due relevance be given to eGovernment in the Summit’s discussion and in the WSIS Action Plan. The whole thing is a bit wordy, but certainly demonstrates an ongoing commitment by Europe's leaders to eGovernment.  I am interested in their commitment to develop online services that extend across countries.  Here in the US, there are a number of services that extend across states, but these still have much room for improvement and there are certainly more that can be added.  Watching what the EU does with pan-European online services may provide some additional ideas.  The ministers also properly recognize the need for a secure trust model that extends across the EU. Linking-up Europe: the importance of interoperability for e-government services 10:26:47 AM    comment []

© Copyright 2003 David Fletcher.