nowEurope

In August the Economist Intelligence Unit published a comparative survey study focused on introducing e-government in the Central Europe. The white paper style publication covers the new member states from Central Europe, Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey.

Seven weighted criteria were examined for each of the countries ranked, collectively comprising 35 separate qualitative and quantitative indicators - Connectivity and technology infrastructure, Business and legal environment, Education and skills base, Government policy and vision, E-democracy, Online services for citizens and for businesses. The survey methodology was based on in-depth interviews with programme managers and direct participants in the local development.

The local e-gov critics have been surprised by placing the Czech Republic on the second position behind Estonia and in front of Slovenia. Even more surprising can be the fact these countries received higher ranking than Netherlands. It may not be popular to say we got the high marks thanks to the recent job (e-procurement, eGov portal with the life cases, etc. ) done by the new Ministry of Information Society (having the smallest budget and the less negotiating power among all the ministries).

Let’s not forget the 4th IST call in FP6 will include several strategic objectives relevant to e-government technologies and applications (2.4.4 Broadband for all, 2.4.9 ICT Research for Innovative Government or 2.4.10 Technology-enhanced Learning) with the indicative budget of EUR 165 mil.