EU Legislation Monitor Now Live
The monitor offers an overview of over 300 European digital processes in one place, making it easier to track developments without searching through all sources.
Europe and International
Digital government is not just a focus within the Netherlands but is also a key agenda item in many countries across and outside of Europe.
This presents numerous opportunities. Consider, 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 Digital Decade policy programme presents tangible targets and goals for 2030 to guide Europe’s digital transformation. This encompasses four 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 terms 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 impacting digital government include directives on open data and governmental website accessibility. Subsequently, these regulations are either directly or indirectly translated into national law.
EU to Invest €1.7 Billion in Digital Innovation
The EU will promote digital innovation from 2025 to 2027 through the Digital Europe Programme, which is for organisations focusing on AI, data, cloud, and cybersecurity.
Update on Single Digital Gateway Implementation Resources
The central implementation resources for the Single Digital Gateway (SDG) have been updated by the VNG. Texts are now more user-friendly and easier to edit.
New Guidelines on Personal Data Sharing Outside the EU
The European Data Protection Board has clarified its rules on sharing personal data with non-EU public authorities. Comments via public consultation are welcomed.
European Council Adopts Cyber Resilience Act (CRA)
This law strengthens digital security in the EU through strict security requirements for digital products. This CRA is a next step in the fight against cybercrime.
Global Collaboration
In addition to its involvement in the European Union (EU), the Netherlands participates in various international collaborations focusing on the digitalisation of government: OECD The mission of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Read more about 'Global Collaboration'
Ministerial Declarations on Digital Transformation
In Europe, two critical ministerial declarations have been signed concerning the digital transformation of government: the Tallinn Declaration of 2017 on eGovernment, and subsequently, the Berlin Declaration (2020), which builds upon it. Berlin Declaration Signed Read more about 'Ministerial Declarations on Digital Transformation'
European Legislation and Regulation
The Council of Ministers and the European Parliament are responsible for the decision-making on European rules and regulations proposed by the European Commission. Some legislation impacts the digital government, as outlined below: European legislation and Read more about 'European Legislation and Regulation'
Implementation Starter Kit for the Single Digital Gateway
The Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG) has developed a starter kit to assist municipalities and suppliers with the implementation of the Single Digital Gateway regulation.
European Policy
Digital government initiatives are not confined to the Netherlands. They are high on the agenda in the European Union (EU). Digitalisation transcends national boundaries, and our neighbouring countries and partners face similar challenges. This presents Read more about 'European Policy'
EU Council Approves Law for Recognised ID Wallets
The revised eIDAS regulation establishes a framework that allows the use of nationally recognised ID wallets across Europe. This adds a third option for logging in across member states.
2024 Update to the Values-Driven Digitalisation Work Agenda
The Work Agenda focuses on the conditions for values-driven implementation and digitalisation in society.
