E-government has the potential of strengthening democratic citizenship in the modern administrative states. In view of recent economic challenges, governments are obliged to adopt platforms that can enable them attain more with fewer resources. Furthermore, new procedures are needed to deal with global challenges in the contemporary society that is characterized with climate change, high concern for public safety and transition to new and more sustainable strategies (Rosenbloom, Kravchuck, & Clerkin, 2009, p. 38). The need of adopting new and flexible strategies becomes apparent when one considers the challenges that the modern states face due to aspects such as changing lifestyles, an aging society, urbanization and high cost of living. Public administrations in the contemporary states must serve informed and well-versed citizens who have high expectations and demands high accountability from governments. E-governance provides a more reliable and accountable relationship between the public and private sectors, foster better collaboration among all levels of governance and offer effective service delivery models. Furthermore, e-government enables states to reduce cost while fostering civic participation and improving the quality of services. It is indisputable that all these aspects have the potential of strengthening democracy.
Governments that have incorporated information and communication technologies into their governing procedure procedures have presented high levels of democracy. Adopting an e-governance platform promotes the establishment and execution of the set goals. Through installing and executing best practices, strategies and technologies, modern states can deepen democracy and enhance representation and citizen engagement. E-governance lays the foundation and provides unique opportunities that foster successful establishment of democratic states. It is apparent that systems that increase public’s participation in the government activities are likely to realize high levels of democracy. Analysts argue that e-governance and democracy merged together form a piece of the e-democracy. Such a system is necessary for any modern state that needs to be successful. The aspect of e-democracy in the contemporary world is characterized by practices such as online campaigning, citizen discussions, lobbying, activism and politics. These elements define the degree to which modern states are successful in embracing democracy. Technology has facilitated emerging interest in participatory states enabling them realize democracy at a lower cost that minimizes economic or government regulations on traditional media. However, there is the need of ensuring that the legal or the personal security outcomes of online activities such as politics and media activities do not counter check the advantages attached to the e-governance. Political analysts acknowledge that competitive political environments have promoted the adoption of the e-governance in institutions of democracy such as parliaments, the executive, elected official, the media, political parties and the interest groups (Rosenbloom, Kravchuck, & Clerkin, 2009, p. 126). The potential of an e-model in fostering democracy becomes unquestionable because such activities often enhance participation to the level that they promote the interest of each institution.
Although e-government is often characterized with some disadvantages, it is clear that the strategy has the potential of strengthening democratic citizenship in the modern administrative states. Governments that embrace this strategy are at a higher position of providing services in a more transparent and open manner. Furthermore, citizens are more engaged and involved in the government’s activities when an e-model platform is adopted. This fosters citizens’ satisfaction while making them feel to be part of the governance. The advantages and the high value attached to the idea of e-government explain the potential of this platform in fostering democracy, which explains the need of embracing the idea.
References
Rosenbloom, D. H., Kravchuk, R., & Clerkin, R. (2009). Public administration: Understanding management, politics, and law in the public sector (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill
