Europe | International

Digital government is a focal point not only in the Netherlands but also in many other countries across Europe and beyond. 

This presents numerous opportunities. For instance:

• The European Digital Strategy with Europe’s plans for government digitalisation.
• The European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles champions a values-driven digital transformation, rooted in shared European values.
• The European Digital Decade policy programme sets out tangible targets and goals for 2030 to guide Europe’s digital transformation. This covers 4 key areas: skills, infrastructure, businesses, and public services.

Digital government in an international context

Internationally, the Netherlands is regarded as an innovative country, yet we can always learn from other countries’ experiences. This is why the Netherlands is committed to actively participating in global digital government initiatives. In various international forums, agreements are made, experiences are exchanged, and policies on digital government are established, including in the United Nations (UN), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the European Union (EU).

European policy and programmes

Achieving a Europe fit for the digital age remains a prime EU priority. The aim is to shape the EU’s digital transition in a manner beneficial for individuals and businesses while contributing to a climate-neutral Europe by 2050. Consequently, the EU has developed an extensive cluster of legislation and policies.

Like in other policy areas, the European Commission proposes new EU legislation and regulations. In the context of digital government, the Directorate-General for Communication Networks, Content and Technology (CONNECT) and the Directorate-General for Informatics (DIGIT) have primary roles. However, proposals affecting this field may also arise from other directorates-general.

The Committee of Ministers, representing all member states, and the European Parliament make decisions on European legislation and regulations proposed by the European Commission. Examples of legislation affecting digital government include directives on open data and on the accessibility of government websites. Subsequently, these regulations are either directly or indirectly translated into national law.