“We need constructive debate about government innovation, to learn from others around the world and to foster a culture of openness and experimentation.” [LocalGov.co.uk]
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What’s happening on the other side of the world might tell us something about how we do things here.
For example, ‘digital democracy’:
In Nigeria, activists are using apps to hold politicians to account. In Taiwan, parliament is turning social-media algorithms on their head to engage citizens. Estonia has gone further, putting practically all government functions online. David Baker talks to people at the forefront of this revolution in civic tech and asks, can technology save democracy?
BBC World Service – The Documentary, Can technology save democracy?
East Devon has a ‘digital strategy’ – although it’s mostly about providing services online: Digital Strategy.pdf
Devon looked at an online citizens assembly back in November 2020: Rapid Review: The Feasibility of an Online Citizens’ Assembly to support Devon’s Transition to Net Zero
Because ‘digital democracy’ has to be participatory – and not just about receiving information: “The importance of being a good Digital Citizen” – Vision Group for Sidmouth
In fact, it’s only last month since the VGS looked at the issues around how to make use of digital technologies to enhance greater participation – here in East Devon: Lessons on democracy – Vision Group for Sidmouth
Whilst back in December 2020 the focus was on the related increasing participation in the digital economy – here in Sidmouth: Digital and creative now dominate the economy – Vision Group for Sidmouth
Here’s an excellent piece from the LocalGov website:
In short, digital technologies have made it possible to connect with a much larger group of citizens to widen the pool of knowledge and expertise to solve complex problems… However, for such initiatives to take off, we need to ensure the public is informed and engaged throughout the process – to do this, we need constructive debate about government innovation, to learn from others around the world and to foster a culture of openness and experimentation amongst the decision-makers in local councils and government bodies around the country. LocalGov.co.uk – Your authority on UK local government – Digital democracy: helping citizens engage with local government