The paper highlights the potential of these technologies to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and reach of social assistance programs. The authors emphasize the need for policymakers and practitioners to adopt a strategic approach to harnessing the potential of these technologies and ensuring that their implementation does not exacerbate existing inequalities. The paper provides evidence from various countries and projects, including a comprehensive analysis of the impact of AI, big data, and digital platforms on social assistance programs in 15 countries. The analysis reveals that these technologies have the potential to increase efficiency and reduce costs, but also raises concerns about data quality, privacy, and security.
Digital platforms also facilitate the delivery of public services, such as online applications for passports, driver’s licenses, and other government-issued documents.
The government of Rwanda has implemented a digital platform to facilitate the registration of citizens. The platform, called My Rwanda, allows citizens to register online and access a range of public services, including passport and driver’s license applications. The platform has been successful in reducing the time and effort required for applicants to obtain the necessary documents, and has improved transparency and communication between government agencies and beneficiaries. In another example, the government of Kenya has implemented a mobile app to facilitate the registration of voters. The app, called Tatizo la Kujitegemea, allows citizens to register online and access a range of public services, including voter registration and payment of taxes.
This is where data governance comes in – a critical component of data management that ensures data quality, security, and compliance.
Understanding Data Governance
Data governance is the process of defining, implementing, and enforcing policies and procedures that ensure the quality, security, and compliance of data. It involves establishing a framework that outlines the roles, responsibilities, and standards for data management, as well as the processes for data creation, processing, and storage. • It encompasses data quality, data security, data compliance, and data analytics. • Data governance is not just about data management; it’s about creating a culture of data responsibility.
The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not.
To address the challenges of digitalization in social protection, governments and organizations can take several steps:
Rwanda is a country that has made significant progress in digitalizing its social protection systems. The country has invested heavily in building a national digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet networks and data centers.
The Risks of AI-Driven Cybersecurity Threats
AI algorithms are increasingly being used to enhance cybersecurity, but they also pose significant risks.
Strengthening Institutional Coordination
Institutional coordination is crucial for effective governance and the implementation of privacy and AI regulations. In Pakistan, the Sindh Social Protection Authority (SSPA) has demonstrated the importance of institutional coordination in regulating data-sharing and protecting privacy. The SSPA is a multi-stakeholder institution that brings together various government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector entities to ensure the effective implementation of social protection programs.
Expanding digital infrastructure is essential for the effective implementation of privacy and AI regulations.
The Need for Digital Literacy
In today’s digital age, having basic digital literacy skills is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Many individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, lack the necessary skills to navigate the digital world, making it difficult for them to access essential services, participate in the economy, and fully engage with society.
