On 14 October 2024, the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) and EIT Digital signed a cooperation agreement, marking the start of a strategic partnership to advance digital transformation within the public sector across Europe. The event brought together leading figures from EU and national public administration to explore the crucial role of the public sector in driving these transitions and it provided a rich platform for reflection and knowledge sharing.
A Digital Mindset by Default
Natalia Aristimuni-Perez, Digital Services Director at the European Commission‘s DG Informatics (DIGIT), set the tone, emphasising the need for “a digital mindset by default.” This theme resonated throughout the discussions as panelists underscored the importance of embedding digital literacy and innovation into public sector culture.
However, Arne Schönbohm, President of the German Federal Academy of Public Administration, raised a critical concern: “Right now, we don’t know who is really responsible for moving things forward.” This highlighted the complexity of coordinating digital initiatives across EU institutions and Member States, where clarity on leadership roles is still evolving. The challenge is not only to upskill public sector employees but also to create structures that support agile decision-making in the face of rapid technological change.
The Evolving Role of Public Administration
Kjartan Björnsson, Deputy Director and Head of Unit for Governance and Public Administration at the European Commission, emphasised that public administrations must not only adapt to technological changes but also lead by example in sustainability. He referenced the Commission’s Enhancing the European Administrative Space (ComPAct) initiative, focusing on three pillars critical to the digital and green transitions.
Björnsson also addressed the complexity of regulatory frameworks that often hinder progress, calling for simplification and cutting red tape. “Digitalising bad processes will not help much,” he noted, stressing the need to rethink entrenched systems for true transformation.
Key Functions of the Public Sector
The panel identified three key roles for public administration as the EU navigates digital and green transitions:
- Policy-Maker, Regulator, and Enforcer: The public sector must craft and enforce digital policies to protect citizens’ rights while aligning new technologies with societal needs.
- Strategic Investor and Procurer: Public administrations are crucial in stimulating digital innovation by investing in and procuring cutting-edge solutions.
- Creator of Digital Solutions: Many EU institutions have developed sophisticated technologies internally, such as the Hansken forensic platform, showcasing the public sector’s capacity for innovation.
Case Studies: GovTech Innovation in Action
Martjin Pluim, EIPA’s Programme Director, shared examples of public sector digital innovation that have made significant impacts, showcasing the role of public administrations as both creators and buyers of technology.
The European Public Sector (EPSA) winner project Hansken, a digital forensic platform developed by the Dutch Forensics Institute, exemplifies the public sector’s ability to create sophisticated technological solutions in-house. Hansken allows for comprehensive digital forensics, enabling investigators to analyse vast datasets and trace digital evidence across languages.
Success Factors in Digital Transformation
As the discussions turned towards the factors that contribute to successful digital transformation, one key point emerged: digitalisation must be pursued with clear, strategic intent. The panelists outlined three crucial questions that must be addressed for any digital initiative to succeed: Why? What? How?
Digitalisation must be pursued for clear, strategic purposes—improving efficiency, transparency, and service quality. Moreover, the right solutions and a well-managed implementation process, including upskilling staff, are essential.
Lifelong Learning and Digital Literacy
The need for lifelong learning and digital literacy was another theme that emerged during the event. As Arne Schönbohm, put it: “What digital skills will we need in five years?” The answer lies in continuous upskilling and reskilling initiatives that prepare public sector employees for an evolving technological landscape. Likewise, Kjartan Björnsson emphasised the importance of investing in digital literacy at all levels of public administration to ensure that digital tools are used effectively.
We need comprehensive investment in lifelong learning and training programmes specifically targeting digital literacy and advanced IT skills, as these are essential for modernising public administration and ensuring that institutions can harness new technologies effectively”.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
The signing of the EIPA and EIT Digital partnership marks a key milestone in advancing the EU’s digital transformation. Public administrations will play a central role, driving innovation and sustainability. By fostering collaboration, investing in digital skills, and developing in-house technologies, Europe’s public sector is well-positioned to lead the way through the digital and green transitions.
