From D3 to Open Governance in Europe 2030: driver, barriers and framework conditions

The chapter explores how democratic governance could develop by 2030 if supported and enhanced systematically by the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The chapter presents the results of a scenario analysis of possible future outcomes in European governance in the next twenty years; it identifies the research needs and policy challenges to be addressed. The chapter examines in great detail what we term the ‘Open governance scenario’, a possible future where the potential of D3 may be fully realised. In this scenario, it is foreseen that citizens will enjoy unprecedented access to information and knowledge via ICT. By shifting cognitive capacities, the work of memorizing and processing data and information will be passed onto machines, while humans will be able to focus on critical thinking and developing new analytical skills. This will enhance collective intelligence (both human and ICT-enabled). Humans will be able to use policy modelling techniques to help solve global challenges. Possibilities for the provision of personalized and real-time public services will be opened up. Online engagement of citizen and governance stakeholders will increase. Citizens, businesses and researchers will have direct access to data they need and this will create new opportunities for people to interact with and influence governance and policy-making processes and make progress in solving societal problems. The chapter examines the social, economic and technological trends supporting this scenario, and the role of citizens, corporations and governments in the scenario. It discusses the threats and opportunities arising and explores the framework conditions required for its realization. Finally, it discusses current and forthcoming R&D initiative at EU level that may provide adequate ICT tools for governance and policy modelling that support the realization of the scenario.

MISURACA Gianluca;  LUSOLI Wainer; 

2013-03-15

Fundacion Ideas / Ideas Foundation

JRC68056

978-84-15386-16-2,