The Role of Technology in Citizens’ Right to Good Administration: Examining the Impact of Smart Governments
摘要
This chapter examines the implementation and impact of “smart governments” within the European Union, focusing on the integration of digital technology in public administration. It investigates the operational strategies adopted by these digital governments and their implications for the fundamental right to good administration. The study explores the increasing reliance on technology, driven by neoliberal policies, leading to the automation and digitalization of public services. While these advancements promise enhanced efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, they also pose significant risks to citizens’ rights, particularly concerning privacy, data protection, and meaningful citizen participation. This chapter critically analyzes the tension between the drive for efficiency through automation and the safeguarding of democratic values and fundamental rights. It advocates for a balanced approach that harmonizes technological innovation with the preservation of citizens’ rights and democratic principles.