I believe digital China is incredibly impressive, especially considering its very high rankings across various indices like the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), Online Services Index (OSI), Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII), and E-Participation Index (EPI).
These high rankings indicate that China is among the world and region leaders when it comes to e-governance and especially the participation of its citizens in it.
Actually, in 2022, China was among the top 10 countries in Asia with the highest EGDI values, according to the UN’s E-Government report. Additionally, Shanghai (one of China’s leading cities) was among the top 10 cities globally with the highest LOSI values, reflecting its exceptional performance in local online service provision.
Shanghai’s impressive rankings in technology, service provision, and content provision (all important indicators of the LOSI index) further solidify its status as a global leader in digital governance.
By focusing on areas like big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and emerging technologies, China has positioned itself as a digital economic powerhouse. These technologies play an important role in driving innovation, boosting efficiency, and economic growth.
The construction of Digital China 2035
In my view, China’s issuance of the ‘Overall Layout Plan for the Construction of Digital China ‘in 2023 marks a significant milestone in the country’s digital governance journey. This plan outlines China’s ambition to become a global leader in digital innovation and technology by 2035.
It’s China’s way of tackling the challenges it faces in today’s tough economic environment.
The plan talks about building up China’s digital infrastructure and data resources and making sure digital technology is deeply integrated into every part of the country’s economy, politics, culture, society, and environment. It also emphasizes the importance of innovation in digital technology and making sure digital systems are secure.
Also, digital China is trying to show a more proactive stance globally, which is evident in its engagement with international cooperation platforms and efforts to contribute to developing international rules governing the cross-border flow of data.
This demonstrates China’s willingness to participate (constructively) in global discussions on digital governance and contribute to establishing a more secure digital environment.
In addition, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently (in 2023) released a document called China’s Positions on Global Digital Governance. This document builds on China’s Global Initiative on Data Security –earlier efforts on data security and talks about the importance of getting data from other countries through the right channels.
It also warns against ICT providers putting in secret ways for unauthorized access to data.
Digital adoption from the population
China places a very, very strong emphasis on the importance of achieving fair and universal access to the Internet, and enhancing digital connectivity.
They believe it’s important for people to be able to get online easily and use digital technology. According to recent data(datareportal.com), there were 1.69 billion mobile connections in China in early 2023, which is more than the total population! That’s a lot of people using mobile phones and getting connected.
What’s even more impressive is that China has managed to cover 100% of its population with at least a 4G mobile network. This means that no matter where you are in China, you should be able to get a good mobile internet connection.
Connectivity is an important part that then leads to improved e-participation. And in 2022, China ranked 13th out of 193 countries assessed (!) regarding e-participation.
Also, the recognition of digitalisation as a fundamental human right reflects the mainland’s understanding of the transformative potential of digital technology. To make this happen, the government wants to make sure there are digital products and services that suit everyone’s needs. They also want to protect people’s rights and freedoms when they’re online. I believe that this balanced approach ensures that digital development is not only inclusive but also respects privacy and promotes responsible digital citizenship.
Also, I find it really interesting how China is working to bridge the gap between different regions. In the past, some areas (like the Western provinces) might have been left behind when it comes to digital technology. But China has been trying for some years now to change that by bringing innovation and digital connections to these places.
Final thoughts
China has built up a strong digital infrastructure that helps support all kinds of digital services. Plus, they’re really focusing on new and cutting-edge technologies that are just starting to emerge.
This makes China stand out not just in their region, but on the global stage too. They’re really setting the pace for what’s possible in the digital world, and it’s exciting to see where they’ll go next.
Sources:
https://publicadministration.un.org/egovkb/en-us/Data/Country-Information/id/36-China
