Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Dreaming Of An E-Government

In the new era of technological advancement that steadily shapes the modern world, a new tool has been introduced to further the goals of the government. The transformation of archaic modes and methods has been steadily transplanted with the use of modern information and communication technologies (ICTs). Changes that created ripples- transforming public policy, laws, and society. All this changes lead the way towards the goal of becoming an E-Government. An E-Government that provides convenience when dealing with the government, enhancing a country's democratic fiber by facilitating discussion between government and its citizens and with greater transparency.

Interestingly, policies towards e-governance have started in the Philippines since 1971. Executive Order 322 established the National Computer Center, then the National Information Technology Council was created in 1994, and in 2000 the Government Information Systems Plan.

Yet, why are we ranked 66th in the UN E-Government Survey (which assesses the E-Government readiness of a country)? It is alarming given that we are ranked behind China whose government has muzzled the web as a forum for free information and discussion.

Makes me wonder. The rest of the world is riding the e-governance train, are we in it?

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Baguilat, Ice 06-78921

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