Full Description
This book analyzes the common set of obstacles to the development and integration of government Information and Communication Technology (ICT) projects and effective e-government initiatives in developing countries. It draws on the expertise and experience of more developed states in the Pacific, notably Australia and New Zealand, both highly rated in global rankings for e-government and active in a variety of e-government development projects across the region. There has been a general failure to identify priorities and align projects with local needs in ICT/e-government projects. Small Island Developing States (or SIDS) present a unique problem in terms of e-government. Not only do they suffer from a common set of barriers to ICT development such as their remoteness, geographical dispersion, moist tropical climates, largely rural populations, and lack of ICT capacity and infrastructure, but are also dependent on external agencies for investment, and must negotiate with powerful donors who have conflicting agendas.
E-government is widely regarded as 'transformational', increasing efficiency, productivity, accountability, economic growth, and citizen involvement. But while the governments of SIDS are committed to harnessing ICTs for effective government and economic development, they face major challenges in establishing successful e-government initiatives, due to the problems outlined above, coupled with a lack of HR capacities and appropriate strategies and policies.
Drawing on the experience of the states mentioned above, as well as regional quasi-governmental bodies, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), aid agencies, and the private sector, the book will be of interest to researchers and students in the fields of e-government, public administration, political science, communication, information science, and social media.
Contents
Introduction - e-government in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).- Global policies and initiatives for e-government in SIDS.- Regional ICT strategies, regional cooperation and its contribution to effective e-government.- Public administration in SIDS, including core government functions: public finance, parliamentary process, legislation, official statistics, and government record-keeping.- Mobile technologies, and their impact in SIDS.- The role of ICTs and agriculture in economic development in SIDS.- Climate change and disaster preparation and response: a key issue for SIDS.- Social sectors, education, health and community development.- The Law and Justice sector - shared learning across SIDS.- Knowledge Management in SIDS and regional digital collections.- The role of civil society in promoting e-government in SIDS.- Conclusion.
