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.
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.
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
Besides its involvement in the European Union (EU), the Netherlands takes part in various international collaborations focused on the digitalisation of government. OECD The mission of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is Read more about 'Global Collaboration'
Ministerial declarations on digital transformation
In Europe, 2 essential ministerial declarations have been signed on the digital transformation of government: the Tallinn (2017) and Berlin (2020) declarations.
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 limited to the Netherlands. They are a high priority within the European Union (EU). Digitalisation goes beyond national borders, and our neighbouring countries and partners face similar challenges. This offers 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.
EU Council adopts Interoperable Europe Act
This European regulation aims to improve collaboration and digital data exchange between public organisations across the EU, simplifying and accelerating processes.
Handy Overview of European Digital Initiatives
Across Europe, there are various digitalisation initiatives that can be beneficial for decentralised government. Kenniscentrum Europa Decentraal (KED) has compiled a useful overview of these initiatives.
The DSA Comes Into Effect for All Digital Services
As of 17 February 2024, all digital services are required to comply with the Digital Services Act. This includes online marketplaces, social networks, search engines, cloud services, and more.
