Digital Transformation In Public Administration: Policy, Governance, And Social Implications

Abstract

The digital transformation of public administration represents a fundamental shift from industrial-era bureaucracy to a 21st-century digital government. This transition is driven by the triple promise of enhanced operational efficiency, improved citizen-state interaction, and bolstered economic competitiveness. It necessitates a move from siloed, hierarchical governance to integrated, "Whole-of-Government" models, enabled by central digital service units and agile, iterative policy-making. The application of emerging technologies, such as AI and IoT, promises further automation and service enhancement. However, this transformation is a double-edged sword, presenting significant societal challenges. The digital divide threatens to exacerbate social equity, creating gaps in access, skills, and meaningful usage. The rise of mass surveillance and opaque algorithmic decision-making poses grave risks to civil liberties, privacy, and due process. Consequently, building digital trust through transparency, accountability, and ethical frameworks is paramount. Ultimately, a sustainable digital future must be human-centric, balancing efficiency gains with the protection of fundamental rights. It requires a new kind of public servant equipped with hybrid skills and a deep public service ethos, and a redefined citizen-state relationship where individuals evolve from passive recipients to active co-creators of public value. The success of this paradigm shift hinges on proactive policies that ensure equity, ethical governance, and participatory design.