The UN Digital Government Awards are a fantastic celebration of how governments around the world are using technology to provide great services for and to their people.
These awards recognize the best online public services, like government websites or apps, that make it easier for us to access information, get help, or complete important tasks.
What’s more, these awards celebrate advancements in digital public services that directly support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These improvements have significantly simplified the process for entrepreneurs to establish and legalise their businesses.
Additionally, they’ve made it much quicker for investors to acquire the necessary permits to invest in sectors vital to achieving the SDGs (like tackling climate change or producing medicines in less wealthy nations.)
These awards play a crucial role in recognising and promoting innovations that directly benefit citizens. By streamlining bureaucratic processes and encouraging investments in critical areas like healthcare and sustainability, these advancements have a direct positive impact on people’s lives.
The focus on digital governance is not just about technology (I’ve said that many times before). It’s about making services more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the ENTIRE population.
I think it’s amazing to see how technology is being used to improve our lives, and these awards highlighted some of the most impressive examples of that. I would also add that it’s inspiring to see how innovation and creativity are making our interactions with government services more efficient and user-friendly.
What are these awards?
These awards are a crucial initiative within UNCTAD’s broader strategy to enhance business and investment opportunities (with a huge focus on developing nations.)
I want to strongly emphasise the significance of these efforts, as they are founded on the principle that when businesses formally register with the government, they gain improved access to financial resources (such as loans, for example.)
This formal registration not only aids in the creation of skilled employment opportunities but also contributes to funding vital sectors like healthcare and social protection systems.
In my opinion, the focus on directing investments towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is of paramount importance. Addressing the considerable annual $4 trillion funding gap faced by developing countries requires strategic allocation of resources, and channeling investments into the SDGs is a step towards narrowing this gap.
The streamlined approach of transitioning intricate administrative procedures to online platforms is (and can be) a game-changer. This shift has the potential to drastically reduce the time it takes for businesses to register – from several months to just a few days.
Digitalizing government in 2023 – Award winners
Winning the ‘Best Digital Single Window for Business Creation and Operation’ award were:
- Bhutan’s “Government to Business Services”
- Burundi’s “Guichet électronique de création d’entreprise (Easy Business),” and El Salvador’s “CONMYPE” digital accounting and tax tool.
Bhutan’s platform registers small businesses fast and aims to digitize all related public services, facilitating access for women and youth.
Burundi’s window allows mobile-based creation of small to medium enterprises, promoting accessibility and reducing paperwork.
El Salvador’s CONMYPE simplifies accounting and tax management for micro-entrepreneurs.
For the ‘Best Digital Information Portal for Business Creation and Operation’,
- Togo’s “Guichet électronique pour la facilitation de l’investissement”
- and Mexico’s “Ventanilla única para inversionistas” secured the top spot.
Togo’s portal offers transparent investment information and real-time opportunities, while Mexico’s tool provides user-friendly insights on conducting business countrywide.
The ‘Best Trade Information Portal’ was awarded to the “Central Asia Gateway,” which aids access to trade formalities within Central Asia.
Regarding ‘Upcoming Digital Tools Promoting Investment in The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’, Colombia’s digital carbon registry complies with carbon emission regulations, enabling easier reporting and future carbon markets. Also, Mali’s digital pharmaceutical regulation portal reduces product registration time, encouraging local production and ensuring the swift availability of vital medicines.
These innovations streamline processes, encourage investment, and contribute significantly to economic growth and sustainability.
Final thoughts
In my view, these digital governments aren’t just winning awards—they’re shaping the future of business, trade, and sustainability. Their impact transcends borders, serving as inspirations for global progress and laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous world.
The future undoubtedly belongs to those who embrace technological innovation to drive positive change, and these trailblazing tools are leading the charge.
