Kathmandu: Digital transformation continues to accelerate globally as countries prioritize e-governance to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Despite the ongoing digital divide, the latest United Nations report highlights a significant rise in e-government development, with countries launching new strategies, policies, and governance initiatives, while also increasing investments in digital infrastructure.
The biennial publication by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, titled "E-Government Survey 2024: Accelerating Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development," evaluates digital progress through the E-Government Development Index (EGDI) and the Local Online Services Index (LOSI) across all UN member states.
The report emphasizes the growing trend of governments integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, a shift accelerated during the post-pandemic recovery. It highlights global megatrends such as the adoption of cloud computing, broadband expansion, AI integration, and the increased use of digital identity systems. These developments have enhanced government services, improving citizens' engagement and service delivery.
However, the report underscores the persistent challenges posed by the digital divide, particularly in developing regions like Africa and Oceania. UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, LI Junhua, noted that the disparities in digital access and capacity continue to threaten progress towards the 2030 Agenda, despite positive strides globally.
Nepal's Progress in Digital Development
Nepal has made significant progress in its digital adoption since 2022, emerging as a leading performer among Least Developed Countries (LDCs). According to the UN report, Nepal, alongside Bangladesh, Bhutan, Rwanda, Cambodia, and Zambia, has shown strong digital growth over the past two years. Nepal is ranked 119th globally with an EGDI score of 0.5781, an improvement from its previous rank of 125 in 2022.
Despite this progress, Nepal lags behind many countries, with Denmark, Estonia, Singapore, Iceland, the Republic of Korea, and Saudi Arabia leading the global rankings in digital governance. In comparison, India ranks 97th, China 35th, Bangladesh 100th, and Bhutan 103rd in the 2024 report.
The report also highlights the importance of bridging the growing gaps in digital adoption to ensure equitable access to modern technology and to support sustainable development.
With its continued focus on digital transformation, Nepal is poised to further enhance its e-government services, though challenges remain in expanding access and infrastructure to all citizens.
