Costa Rica has finished in last place in the OECD’s Digital Government Index, sparking deep concern among the technology industry and professional associations. These stakeholders are calling for urgent collaboration between the public and private sectors and civil society to prioritize investment in technology and training. The goal is to close the digital divide, improve administrative efficiency, and position the country as a leader in the use of technology for citizen well-being. Telecommunications and information technology chambers emphasize that a robust digital government is essential for competitiveness and attracting investment. They argue that the results should be taken seriously to adjust public policy goals, ensuring a safe and responsible environment for the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs). The response from the Ministry of Science and Technology highlights that this assessment allows for comparison with international standards and the adoption of best practices, serving as a guide for areas needing improvement in state management. The relevance of this article to open data lies in the fact that effective digital transformation and evidence-based decision-making intrinsically depend on access to, the quality of, and interoperability among public data. Without robust open data, it is impossible to achieve the inclusion, transparency, and efficiency demanded by modern e-government standards. Lack of progress in this regard not only affects the quality of digital services but also limits the State’s capacity to innovate and respond to the real needs of citizens.
Source:Published on 2024-03-13