Title: An international comparison of the role of artificial intelligence in e-governance towards providing better standards of living

Authors: Tinashe Mukonavanhu

Addresses: College of Business and Economics, School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, University of Johannesburg, Cnr Kingsway and University Road Auckland Park, South Africa

Abstract: The study investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in e-governance to enhance living standards by improving service provision. It explores AI's role in various government processes, focusing on operationalisation, security, and service delivery. Utilising international and South African (SA) contexts, the research reviews existing literature and best practices to understand perceptions of AI and e-governance. Through secondary data analysis from diverse sources including articles and government documents, the study identifies challenges encountered by countries, particularly developing ones, in implementing AI in e-governance. These challenges include global insecurity and ethical concerns surrounding AI usage. The primary finding highlights the critical need for ensuring ethical AI deployment and suggests the establishment of supervisory frameworks to enforce regulations. Recommendations stress the importance of preventing major economies from monopolising AI innovation to maintain global balance. The study provides valuable insights for countries seeking to integrate AI into e-governance, emphasising the significance of ethical considerations and regulatory oversight. Overall, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities and implications of AI adoption in government sectors globally.

Keywords: artificial intelligence; e-government; public management; digital governance; digital era governance; legislation.

DOI: 10.1504/EG.2025.144720

Electronic Government, an International Journal, 2025 Vol.21 No.2, pp.137 - 157

Received: 25 Oct 2023
Accepted: 19 Mar 2024
Published online: 28 Feb 2025 *

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