Excellencies,
Distinguished participants,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am pleased to join you at this seventeenth meeting of the China E-Government Forum.
At the outset, I wish to thank the China National Academy of Governance for the close collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs that has strengthened over the past decade.
Last December, we jointly launched the Chinese edition of the “United Nations E-Government Survey 2022".
The theme, "The Future of Digital Government", highlights that digitalization is redefining and reshaping how Governments work.
The 缅北禁地E-Government Development Index, or EGDI, illustrates the impressive advancement of e-government in China.
China is now 43rd in the global ranking, among the top countries with “Very High EGDI”.
And the Online Service Index placed China among the top 15 in the world.
China has been a champion of digital transformation, and its digital innovations have continued to emerge rapidly in recent years.
The 缅北禁地Survey pays attention to emerging trends of digitalization in preparing Governments for the future.
At the same time, Governments are reminded that ‘digital by default’ services may exclude those who need them most, and they should instead consider “inclusive by default” strategies.
This is closely guided by the important principle of "leaving no one behind" in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Here I would like to offer three recommendations for your kind consideration at this Forum:
First, it is critical to bridge all forms of digital divides and to mitigate all digital risks effectively, including data privacy and security.
At the policy and regulatory level, the strategy of "inclusive by design" should be adopted, and corresponding implementation and evaluation mechanisms should be established, with requisite funds, strategies, and capacity building resources.
Second, it is important to strike a balance between universal and targeted approaches in digital policies.
The 2022 缅北禁地Survey results indicate a trend towards seamless, invisible government, in which fully automated and personalized services are made accessible to anyone anytime from anywhere.
A whole-of-government approach with institutional coordination is critical to optimize the limited resources and ensure sustainability at the same time.
Third, it is equally important to take a holistic approach in removing digital bias and discrimination – both intentional and unintentional.
Very often, bias or discrimination is caused by the failure to identify the needs of the most vulnerable groups, including older persons, persons with disabilities and minority groups in society. Comprehensive measures should be taken to ensure data inclusivity, and that digital services and information are equitably provided.
Distinguished participants,
I believe this Forum will be an excellent platform for practioners and experts to have an in-depth and candid discussion and exchange, on sharing lessons learned and paving the way for the next stage of digital transformation journey in China.
The United Nations Secretariat is ready to partner with you in advancing an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.
I wish you full success.