Electronic Government, an International Journal (19 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• M-government landscape: systematic classification and future directions  
  by Noor Dheyaa Azeez, Alaa Abdul Salam Alhamadany, M.A. Alsalem 
  Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to present a comprehensive systematic review of M-government while simultaneously exploring open challenges and future directions to supplement earlier research and provide more precise and definitive findings. A total of 146 papers on the M-government subject, sourced from several databases (i.e., ScienceDirect, Web of Science and IEEE Xplore), were selected utilising a thorough literature search method and stringent selection criteria. The reviewed studies were categorised into a systematic and coherent classification containing six categories: security, M-government app development, evaluation, usage and diffusion, readiness and implementation, and review and survey. We have provided a systematic and comprehensive examination of prior studies in this study and a framework for potential future research by thoroughly examining the challenges, drivers, and recommendations. Additionally, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review to investigate comprehensively different aspects of M-government and conduct an intensive analysis summarising the results of earlier studies. Finally, several recommendations were provided to policymakers for establishing M-government, considering citizens’ expectations and improving content quality, as well as other recommendations for developers/providers.
  Keywords: mobile government; M-government taxonomy; adoption; challenges.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069685
   
  
• Perceptions on the agency of media practitioners in E-governance in Nigeria  
  by Chimaobi D. Onwukwe, Roseline Ndimele, Emenike Ubani 
  Abstract: The study examined the perceptions of media practitioners on their agency in driving effective e-governance in Nigeria. The study drew on data collected via qualitative methodological approaches involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with participants drawn from members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Radio, Television and Theater Workers Union in the five Southeastern states of Nigeria The study observed that media practitioners perceive themselves as critical stakeholders in e-governance implementation Varied ways in which they contribute to Nigeria’s emerging e-governance include facilitating adoption and running of electronic system of governance by sourcing news and verifying information from government digital and electronic platforms. Some impediments include a lack of adequate government support which manifests in the challenge of adequate training, and suggested remedial actions include a public-private financing model. The study advances discussions on innovative ways of upscaling Nigeria’s dwindling e-governance development index.
  Keywords: e-governance; media practitioners; perception; mass media; Nigeria.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10070902
   
  
• Cyber-physical systems integration for effective e-government communication in Malaysia  
  by Mohd Heikal Husin, Christie Pei-Yee Chin, Sharifah Mashita Syed-Mohamad, Nor Athiyah Abdullah, Aliyu Shehu Yakubu 
  Abstract: Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) bridge physical and digital processes, offering transformative potential for e-government. This study investigates CPS-social media integration in Malaysian Government agencies, proposing a framework grounded in ten critical CPS characteristics. By engaging 30 participants across four ministries, findings revealed that CPS integration enhances real-time data analytics, scalable infrastructure, and secure interoperability, addressing fragmented communication and privacy risks. Key advancements include AI-driven insights, user-friendly interfaces, and policy compliance, improving operational efficiency and crisis responsiveness. Remarkably, 83.3% of participants endorsed CPS for streamlining decision-making, and 76.7% highlighted its role in crisis management - capabilities unattainable via traditional tools. The framework mitigates infrastructural and skill barriers, positioning CPS as pivotal for modernising Malaysias e-governance. By aligning with national digital goals, it fosters public trust through ethical, data-driven governance. These insights offer actionable pathways for policymakers to prioritise CPS adoption, ensuring equitable service delivery.
  Keywords: cyber-physical system; CPS; social media usage; government organisations; CPS characteristics; Malaysia.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10070930
   
  
• Post-genocide Rwanda: the role of women in reconstruction  
  by Harsh Meena, M. Sanija  
  Abstract: Throughout history, women have consistently been marginalised in governance matters, often criticised and underestimated, especially when faced with challenges. However, Rwandan women have shattered such stereotypes. Despite the devastation of the genocide, which nearly obliterated the nation, Rwandans, particularly women, endured unimaginable suffering. Yet, they not only survived but also emerged stronger. Today, Rwanda advances steadily, maintaining stability and social cohesion. Reflecting on Rwandas journey reveals the indispensable contributions of its women. Emerging from a past marked by oppression and cruelty, Rwandan women demonstrated resilience, leading the nations reconstruction from the ashes. Their decision-making amid turmoil unified the nation towards progress and prosperity. Rwandas remarkable achievements, surpassing many developed nations despite being classified as a least developed country (LDC), highlight its extraordinary path. This paper examines the rapid growth witnessed over the past two decades by Rwanda and serves as a global inspiration, with Rwandan women playing a pivotal role in these accomplishments. In times of despair, Rwandan women emerged as symbols of hope, defying odds to demonstrate that where women lead, hope endures.
  Keywords: genocide; Africa; gender; governance; Rwanda; women.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10070991
   
  
• Personal data protection in the age of digital financial systems  
  by Anitha Kumari 
  Abstract: In the age of digital banking, protecting personal information is essential because of the growing risks of data breaches and cybercrime. This study developed a conceptual framework for protecting personal data in digital financial systems by assessing existing cybersecurity measures, regulatory compliance, and new technologies. This study identifies key risks including data breaches, cyber threats, and compliance violations and explores potential solutions such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and encryption technologies. This highlights the relevance of legislative frameworks, such as GDPR and CCPA, in improving data privacy, as well as the responsibility of consumers to protect their personal information. The report also analyses the influence of the dark web on financial data security and emphasises the importance of comprehensive threat intelligence and monitoring. The findings indicate that coordination among financial institutions, regulators, and customers is critical for reducing risk and maintaining data privacy in digital financial ecosystems.
  Keywords: data protection; cybersecurity; General Data Protection Regulation; GDPR; emerging technologies; potential solutions.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10071060
   
  
• Assessing the readiness of the digital village capability to facilitate the implementation of electronic-based government systems in Ogan Ilir Regency  
  by Darius Antoni, Jumroh Jumroh, Andi Agusman, Astuti Astuti 
  Abstract: This study investigates the readiness of digital village communities in Ogan Ilir Regency to implement the electronic-based government system (SPBE) by focusing on the development of digital villages capability. The initiative undertaken by the local government aims to mitigate digitalisation inequalities between rural and urban areas. Employing a mixed-method approach involving surveys and interviews, the research evaluates key indicators developed by reputable institutions, including the Centre for Research and Development of Informatics Applications and the Public Information and Communication Agency for Research and Development of Human Resources. The study identifies four critical dimensions of village capabilities: the ability of the village internet network infrastructure, the communitys ability to access the internet, and the ability to manage online businesses. The findings suggest that the digital village capabilities, as evaluated across these dimensions, demonstrate potential in supporting SPBE implementation in Ogan Ilir Regency. The findings contribute to the understanding of factors influencing digital accessibility and provide insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to enhance electronic-based government services in analogous environments. Continuous support and systematic monitoring are advised to uphold and enhance the digital capabilities of these villages over time.
  Keywords: SPBE; Digital Village; IT infrastructure; Ogan Ilir; IT capability.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10071092
   
  
• The importance of the artificial intelligence in smart governance  
  by Sara Hosseinpour Chaijani, Milad Mohammadi 
  Abstract: In contemporary society, the integration of new technologies into governance practices has emerged as a critical concern, often referred to as Smart Governance. This concept represents a modernised approach to political processes, management, and public administration, heavily reliant on artificial intelligence technologies that serve as guiding principles for governmental strategies. The current scholarly investigation aims to articulate an optimal model for governance. The prevalence of corruption, opacity, lack of accountability, and unfair policies among leaders and authorities fosters societal distrust. To mitigate potential societal harm, a transition towards artificial intelligence-driven governance is advocated. By implementing artificial intelligence technologies, the likelihood of corruption is reduced, as AI operates within a framework devoid of loopholes that corrupt individuals exploit. Thus, shifting towards intelligent governance not only combats corruption but also serves as a barrier against the emergence and propagation of corrupt practices.
  Keywords: speech emotion recognition; SER; feature extraction; deep bottleneck residual convolutional neural network; DBR-CNN; noise reduction; coati optimisation algorithm; COA; speech emotion datasets; SEResNeXt-101; deep learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10071635
   
  
• Toward enhanced citizen trust: the impact of e-Gov service quality on citizen satisfaction in the digital age  
  by Rizky Pramuditha, Didin Muhafidin, Asep Sumaryana, Elisa Susanti, Bhakti Nur Avianto 
  Abstract: This study aims to analyse the relationship between the quality of e-government services (e-GovQual), user satisfaction, and public trust. Quantitative research methods are used with a survey approach as material for statistical data analysis. Results, the quality of e-government services on the Smartdukcapil Pandeglang Regency website has been rated effective by service users. Information quality is the most important indicator of e-GovQual. User satisfaction with e-GovQual is also considered good by public service. Satisfaction with the overall electronic service is the most important indicator of user satisfaction. Public trust in is also considered good, competency is the most important indicator of citizen trust and e-GovQual has a positive effect on user satisfaction. This shows that good e-GovQual will increase user satisfaction. User satisfaction has a positive effect on citizen trust. This shows that user satisfaction with e-government services will increase public trust in the government.
  Keywords: e-GovQual; digital transformation; public participation; open government; service quality.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073333
   
  
• Election process using blockchain: an innovative strategy for transparent voting  
  by Mohit Kumar Arya, Nishant Mathur, Sanjeev Kumar, Yashwant Singh Bisht, Virendra Singh Rana 
  Abstract: To overcome the inadequacies of India’s electronic voting systems with respect to security, auditability, reliability, and trust, this study proposes a blockchain-based solution that attempts to improve the glitches of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) tampering and data integrity issues. The proposed Three-phase Authentication (ThPA) model compares feature-wise with the existing models such as Follow My Vote, Agora Blockchain, and Polys. The design architecture of our proposed model is described in two stages. The first stage is voter validation through biometric data and storing information into a blockchain server, and the second stage has three-way voter authentication encryption, which is utilized for voting by using voter-registered data for identification and authorization. The model characteristics found out that it used multilayer authentication, less energy consumption and is both highly secure and scalable. The proposed ThPA, can enhance the electoral process itself in India by enabling transparent and auditable elections.
  Keywords: blockchain technology; e-voter; Indian voting system; transparent voting; three-way authentication; unique identification number.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073356
   
  
• The effect of social media factor on the 2024 local election from the voters’ perspective  
  by Zübeyir Çelik, Ibrahim Aydin, Ahmet Ünal, Reha Saydan 
  Abstract: This study aims to try to understand voter behaviours from a broad and different perspective. A comprehensive model has been successfully tested in the study. The study population consists of voters who can vote in the 2024 local elections in Turkey. The study sample consists of 420 people. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. Social media was found to have a positive effect on voting intention, word of mouth communication, candidate image, voter opinion, and voter trust. The positive effect of candidate image on voter opinion, voter trust, voting intention, and word of mouth communication was found. In addition, it was observed that both voter opinion and voter trust had a positive effect on voting intention and word of mouth communication. Implications are provided in the study.
  Keywords: social media; voting intention; word of mouth communication; candidate image; voter opinion; voter trust.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073357
   
  
• A framework for analysing the impact of critical success factors on e-public procurement processes  
  by Razeehsadat Aboutalebi, Mohammad Aghdasi, Bakhtiar Ostadi 
  Abstract: This study proposes a structured framework for analysing the impact of Critical Success Factors (CSFs) on electronic public procurement (e-PP) processes, with a national case focus on Iran. Drawing upon 458 scholarly sources (2000-2024), the research identifies and validates 15 key CSFs using a two-stage Delphi method, supported by expert interviews and a systematic literature review. These CSFs are mapped to core, support, and monitoring procurement processes based on the socio-technical MIT90s framework. The framework offers actionable insights for improving transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder alignment in government procurement systems. This study contributes to both theory and practice by integrating strategic and process-oriented perspectives into e-PP design. Future research directions include empirical validation, cross-national comparisons, and integration of emerging technologies for enhanced decision-making and risk management.
  Keywords: electronic public procurement; public sector procurement; critical success factors; transparency in procurement; efficiency in procurement; tender processes; procurement processes.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073358
   
  
• Assessment of e-government services by sentiment analysis of citizen comments  
  by Ramiz M. Aliguliyev, Gunay Y. Iskandarli 
  Abstract: Evaluation of e-service quality is currently considered one of the current issues. By improving the quality of e-services through the analysis of citizen comments, organizations can gain an advantage in the online environment and improve their relations with citizens and their satisfaction. Taking these into account, a new method was proposed in order to increase the quality of e-services, citizen satisfaction and their role in management. Sentiment analysis technologies were used in the proposed method. First, citizen comments were analysed for sentiment, using this, the positive and negative weight of each service was determined, based on this, the level of satisfaction of citizens with government bodies was determined. After that, the main problems that the citizens are concerned about and the extent to which these problems were promptly eliminated by the relevant government bodies were determined.
  Keywords: e-service; electronic service; citizen satisfaction; sentiment analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073528
   
  
• Conceptual model of a social credit system on the Electronic Demography 4.0 platform  
  by Alakbarova I. Yavar 
  Abstract: The application of digital technologies in public administration and the potential of using big data to assess citizens require the development of ethically sound and transparent social credit systems integrated into the electronic demographic system. This paper proposes a conceptual model for a social credit system (SCS) built upon the foundation of Electronic Demography 4.0 (E-demography 4.0). E-demography 4.0 provides a rich tapestry of digital data about individuals, offering the potential for a more comprehensive assessment of social credit. However, ethical considerations and potential pitfalls necessitate a carefully designed framework. The proposed model describes in detail the key architectural components of the SCS, including data sources, functional modules for collecting, processing, and analysing data, as well as mechanisms for the formation and visualisation of social credit. The article explores the synergistic potential of integrating the E-demography 4.0 system with the national population register (NPR) and the SCS. The assessment and management of social credit on the E-demography 4.0 platform can be important for more effective analysis of citizen behaviour and forecasting of social processes to ensure effective social management.
  Keywords: Industry 4.0; E-demography 4.0; social credit; conceptual model; national population registers; NPRs.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10074340
   
  
• How much data: measuring quantity, visibility and topics of Indian open governmental data using machine algorithm approaches  
  by Priya Tiwari, Bhaskar Mukherjee 
  Abstract: This study evaluates India's open data ecosystem through data.gov.in by analysing sector-wise and state-wise data production, usability, and major content topics. Using 6,907 datasets (2012-2023) extracted via a Python-based API, the analysis highlights key areas of interest: primary healthcare data (health), crop production statistics (agriculture), and demographic data (census). States like Tamil Nadu and Assam focus heavily on health-related data, while Andhra Pradesh and Bihar prioritise census abstracts. Tamil Nadu leads contributions to transport data (75.44%) and livestock census data (16.53%). Comparisons with USA and UK portals reveal India's strength in regional datasets but emphasise gaps in technical infrastructure and user engagement. Despite disparities between displayed and actual catalogues, India's tailored local data fosters transparency and data-driven governance. This first-of-its-kind study benchmarks India's portal globally, providing insights into sectoral focus, identifying best practices, and addressing socio-economic governance challenges.
  Keywords: governmental data; Indian government; open data; machine algorithm; data visibility; sectoral data; state data; open science; content analysis; India; UK; USA.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10068802
   
  
• Social media adoption by municipal governments: can it be a path towards a smart governance model in Brazilian cities?  
  by Mery Blanck, José Luís Duarte Ribeiro 
  Abstract: This study explores how the determinants of unified theory of technology acceptance (UTAUT) predict behavioural intention and institutional use of social media (SM) by municipalities. It also analyses the purposes of this adoption, considering citizen participation assumptions embodied in the smart governance concept. The study adopts structural equation modelling to investigate municipal governments in Southern Brazil. The results revealed that social influence shows, among all determinants, the greatest impact on the behavioural intention to adopt institutional SM. However, unlike UTAUT, facilitating conditions have proven to have a negative effect on SM institutional use. This counterintuitive finding, however, may be due to respondents considering that this activity involves greater time consumption and information overload. In turn, despite the dominance of unidirectional information provision by governments in citizen-government interactions, there is already an embryonic perception of the future use of SM to bring citizens closer to decision-making on public affairs.
  Keywords: social media; municipal government; smart governance; UTAUT; structural equation modelling; SEM; citizen participation; Brazil.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069175
   
  
• Framework for the evaluation of digital transformation projects in the public administration  
  by Lanna Oliveira, Jorge Vareda Gomes, Carlos Jerónimo, Mário Romão 
  Abstract: At a global scale, governments are undertaking transformation projects and initiatives to adapt to evolving societal needs while pursuing efficiency and cost reduction. Within the framework of digital transformation (DT) projects in the Portuguese Public Administration (PA), a proposal for a comprehensive evaluation framework has been developed. This framework outlines a series of attributes and criteria designed to assess the feasibility and suitability of proposed projects. The study delineates the characteristics, critical success factors, challenges, and obstacles associated with DT initiatives in the context of public administration. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research utilised a single case study strategy to gather insights. The proposed framework facilitates better strategic alignment and resource allocation, ultimately enhancing the performance objectives established by the PA. This structured approach aims to ensure that digital transformation efforts are not only effective but also aligned with broader governmental goals, thereby improving service delivery and operational efficiency within the public sector.
  Keywords: digital transformation; public sector; digital government; e-government; decision-making; project management.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069187
   
  
• Collaborative e-governance: ecosystem and citizen-centric approach (the case of Kazakhstani capital city)  
  by Aigerim Amirova, Raslana Salmanova, Rymkul Ismailova 
  Abstract: This study examined Kazakhstan's key challenges of ecosystem and citizen-centric approached in e-governance on the example of local executive body interactions with the population during a pandemic to determine areas of improvement. Investigators conducted a survey of 117 civil servants of Astana Akimat. Beside this, 117 citizens of capital city were asked to share their opinions on quality of public services delivery and organisational development of local public authority. For a long time, the capital was an outsider in the rating of the effectiveness of interaction with the population. After developing specific recommendations, a longitudinal study on performance improvement was conducted by comparing the results of public monitoring in 2020 and 2023 (9,181 and 9,954 respondents, respectively). As a result, a set of policy recommendations for modenisation of Astana Akimat's performance in citizen-government interaction were proposed.
  Keywords: e-governance; digitisation; ecosystem; citizen centricity; human resources; public services; collaboration; COVID-19 pandemic.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069109
   
  
• Influence of universal registration effect on accuracy and integrity of e-electoral voting in India  
  by Venkata Subbaiah Potala 
  Abstract: The population of India makes it the most populous democratic country in the world. Accurate electoral rolls are essential for free and fair elections in a democratic country. This research aims to examine a metric for determining the level of accuracy possessed by a system that can generate dynamic electoral rolls. The study considers a conceptual simulation model to evaluate the efficiency of the voting system that is in place. The research developed a model for obtaining the best electoral roll accuracy index (ERAI). However, studies often found that alive and eligible citizens must be enrolled as voters and thus deprived of voting. Often, it is also found that the deceased/ineligible citizens are enrolled as voters. This leads to impersonation and juvenile voting. ERAI is the most appropriate metric for evaluating the effectiveness of any system for generating electoral rolls.
  Keywords: citizen; voter; eligible voter index; electoral roll accuracy index; ERAI; Election Commission of India; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069495
   
  
• Implementation of risk management approach for electric government system based on information technology  
  by Sari Andarwati Kunharyanto, Ratna Mayasari, Robby Marlon Brando, Ellia Kristiningrum, Arwidya Tantri Agtusia 
  Abstract: Risk management is an essential part of e-government implementation, aside from being one of the eight indicators in e-government index management. The application of risk management can enhance the success rate of e-government implementation, safeguard data security, ensure legal compliance, and manage changes more effectively. Risk management can aid in developing e-government so that the services utilised can operate at their optimum by managing existing risks to avoid negative impacts, increase the chances of achieving e-government implementation goals, and realise the institution's e-government objectives. This study is conducted to formulate risk management guidelines for electronic-based government systems and to identify and analyse e-government risk management processes within the system as a whole, thereby producing a foundation that can be adopted and standardised for risk management process implementation in accordance with applicable regulatory approaches.
  Keywords: electronic-based government system; government services; e-government; public trust; risk management.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10069188