Core Government Functions and Local Governance in Crisis
Signature solution 2 - Governance
Introduction
Today’s complex world is marked by a convergence of interlinked crises, including violent conflicts, climate change, public health emergencies, economic instability and social inequalities. As a result, many states are grappling with sustaining core government functions and fulfilling the social contract with their citizens. This challenge is particularly pronounced for governments in fragile and conflict-affected settings where limited resources and capacities can impede effective service delivery and sound risk management. In those contexts, digital technologies can present valuable opportunities for sustaining or restoring core government functions, thereby enhancing resilience, accountability and improving crisis response and recovery.
To inspire further UNDP work in fragile or crisis settings, this guide articulates key messages, highlights opportunities and risks, provides suggestions for programming and stakeholder engagement and showcases select programming examples.
Digital technologies play a crucial role in anticipating and preventingcrises by supplying essential data for early warning systems and risk assessment, as well as by supporting planning and resource allocation through predictive analytics. Leveraging digital technologies and data enables governments to enhance adaptability of their governance processes and structures, effectively preparing for crisis situations.
Digital solutions and digital transformation can support and strengthen social contracts enhancing effective and responsive governance, especially during crises. At the core of digital technology is its ability to create agile, responsive, efficient and transparent governance systems, nurturing trustbetween the government and its citizens. In times of crises, these technologies facilitate streamlined communication channels, enabling authorities to disseminate information and empowering communities to actively engage in public decisions.
Inclusive and effectively applied digital solutions enhance crisis management by expediting responses through the collection, dissemination and presentation of critical data on crisis impact, affected populations, needs, available funding and other resources. This, in turn, facilitates quick and evidence-based decision-making, which is paramount in crisis contexts. Moreover, these solutions enable effective coordination and cooperation among government agencies at different levels, as well as with various stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society and development and humanitarian actors.
In times of crisis, digital technologies become instrumental in ensuring the continuity of public services at both national and local levels. They alleviate potential disruptions to in-person services and traditional governance mechanisms, facilitating critical functions such as payments to public sector staff and emergency responders, procurement and contracting for emergency deliveries. Simultaneously, digital platforms empower citizens and businesses to access essential services online, while also enhancing overall service delivery and relief efforts through improved data availability.
Digital tools help streamline resource management. They facilitate efficient collection and dissemination of information not only on funding, needs and target groups, but also on resource utilization. This contributes to enhancing the effectiveness and impact of crisis response efforts, reducing fragility for populations. Moreover, it fosters transparency and accountability in aid flows, development financing and partner engagements.
Digital transformation for government resilience requires sustained, whole-of-government efforts well before crises emerge. Adopting digital technologies during crises encounters challenges such as infrastructure limitations, skill gaps and system resilience against disruptions. It also entails inherent risks, including cybersecurity threats, data privacy concerns and deepening of digital inequality. Governments must address these challenges and strengthen their digital capabilities to enhance resilience in unforeseen circumstances.
UNDP’s digital expertise supports countries in formulating and implementing digitalization agendas, crucial for sustaining or restoring core government functions during crises. UNDP focuses on leveraging digital tools, data and mechanisms throughout governance programming to enhance crisis prevention and response, enable public service continuity, enhance transparency and accountability and foster citizen engagement during crises. Moreover, by leveraging digital-savvy UN Volunteers and engaging online volunteers, UNDP can accelerate humanitarian efforts by swiftly deploying digital solutions from the onset of crises to the end of the recovery journey.
Opportunities and risks
This segment outlines the society-level opportunities and risks associated with digital technologies in the context of a crisis. These should be used as a basis for forming programme-level theories of change, providing inspiration to programme teams on how digital approaches can support or undermine programme efforts aimed at sustaining or restoring core government functionality in a crisis.
Data and digital technologies for evidence-based decision-making
Digitalisation facilitates data-driven governance; empowering governments to quickly collect, process and analyse information from diverse sources. This framework fosters evidence-based decisions, crucial for effective crisis prevention and response. By combining data and digital technologies we can improve the understanding of the complexities and dynamics associated with the underlying drivers of crises.
Various digital technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, sensors, social listening platforms and satellite imagery can provide relevant data on issues such as hazards, social tensions, civil unrest and disease outbreaks. Machine learning can identify patterns and predict potential crises early on, offering valuable early warning to government authorities. Predictive analytics enables national and local authorities to take proactive measures, anticipate affected areas and populations, plan scenarios, develop response plans, build capacity, deploy resources strategically and minimize negative impacts from emergencies.
Leveraging a spectrum of tools such as social media, crowdsourcing, mobile data, drones, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite imagery provides a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of crises once they occur. These tools offer valuable insights into the situation on the ground, helping governments to understand key issues, map needs and gaps, manage resources, track developments and coordinate aid and relief efforts more effectively.
Real-time communication and multi-stakeholder coordination
During crises, real-time communication is crucial; online platforms and digital communication channels are indispensable tools for governments to swiftly share information with citizens. In emergencies, these platforms provide timely updates, safety instructions and other essential information. This is done through social media notifications from official government accounts, emergency alert systems, text messaging services and mobile applications. It can offer details on imminent threats, protection measures, evacuation orders or other critical instructions.
Beyond information dissemination, digital technologies are crucial for coordinating emergency response efforts across different government levels, promoting both horizontal and vertical cooperation. They facilitate collaboration with other stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society and humanitarian and development actors, fostering integrated and effective crisis responses that can save lives.
Digital solutions can create opportunities for citizen engagement during crises, facilitating two-way communication. This empowers citizens to contribute ideas, express concerns, actively participate in decision-making and self-organize, thereby enhancing crisis response and recovery. Importantly, these solutions enable the inclusion of unrepresented and marginalized groups in both urban and rural settings.
Continuity of government and public service delivery
Digital connectivity, including internet access and reliable communication infrastructure, is fundamental for enhancing public sector management, governance and services. In times of crisis, a strong digital infrastructure is essential for ensuring government and public service continuity, supporting remote work and education and enabling efficient communication and collaboration. It is important to prioritize investments in development and resilience of (decentralized) digital infrastructure, especially in underserved areas, using public networks and platforms such as Wi-Fi hotspots, open libraries and government-funded satellites.
Furthermore, digital technologies ensure uninterrupted public service provision, providing accessibility, efficiency and timely support for citizens and businesses. For example, digital portals grant individuals access to vital records, while enabling application for financial assistance, unemployment benefits or relief funds. Digital avenues streamline the application process for social services such as food assistance, housing support or emergency aid. Online healthcare platforms empower citizens to access health-related information and telemedicine services
Digital identity and digital payments enable inclusive access to services and efficient crisis-related financial support. These technologies empower governments to transfer funds quickly and securely, reducing administrative burdens and enhancing financial security, especially for those facing displacement and mobility challenges during crises.
Transparency and accountability
Digital platforms enhance transparency in government operations by providing real-time insights into government decision-making and actions, offering the public a clear view of crisis response and recovery. For instance, citizens can monitor spending, procurement processes, relief measures and the allocation of supplies and other resources. This heightened transparency empowers citizens with the information necessary for active engagement in crisis response, building a sense of accountability and trust between the government and the public.
Resource management
The integration of digital tools into crisis resource management empowers government to respond more effectively, coordinate aid and adapt strategies based on real-time data. These technologies enhance transparency in resource allocation, enabling the efficient distribution of funds, personnel and essential supplies. For instance, digital databases and tracking systems can be used to monitor the status of projects, aid flow, resource distribution and beneficiaries.
Moreover, digital technologies contribute to optimizing logistical processes, such as asset management, transportation and storage of relief and other supplies. They not only improve resource planning and utilization but also mitigate the risk of bottlenecks, ensuring effective supply management and timely delivery of aid to affected areas.
Physical infrastructure, digital systems and implementation capacities
Physical infrastructure limitations, including broadband, mobile internet and electricity, present significant barriers to connectivity and the adoption of digital tools. These challenges disproportionally affect countries and regions with limited resources, leaving them lagging behind in digital transformation
Correspondingly, local and national authorities in these areas face obstacles in accessing technology-enabled systems, including hardware and software, along with grappling with digital skills gaps. These limitations curb their ability to provide digital public services and leverage digital technologies for crisis preparedness and response.
The resilience of infrastructure and communication systems may prove insufficient to overcome disruptions caused by conflicts, natural disasters, cyber-attacks and heightened demand during crises. For instance, regions prone to natural disasters may experience power outages that disrupt broadband networks and communications. Consequently, overreliance on digital tools without adequate backup plans can lead to system failures or disruptions, impacting the overall effectiveness of crisis management.
During different types of crises or when faced with protests, governments may intentionally restrict access to the internet and communications. Internet shutdowns and network disruptions are often used to quell protests, cut off communication from conflict or crisis-affected areas, or reduce awareness of political events such as election results or unconstitutional changes of government. Given the importance of protecting internet access to the right to freedom of expression and association, it is important that this risk is addressed and mitigated in programming and policy work.
As demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, digital financial services play a crucial role in financial resilience during crises. Nevertheless, challenges persist in some countries due to inadequate digital banking systems hindering access and limiting the distribution of financial aid and subsidies.
Poor data quality and integrity
Data and digital technologies enhance our understanding of crises. However, poor data quality poses significant risks. Inaccurate, incomplete or misinterpreted data may lead to flawed assessments, misguided decision-making and ineffective resource allocation, hampering crisis preparedness and response. Addressing this risk requires comprehensive data quality assurance measures, including validation processes and continuous monitoring, to ensure that the information used in crisis management is accurate, reliable and aligned to the evolving nature of the situation.
Digital divide
The use of digital solutions has the potential to exacerbate inequalities and the digital divide between and within countries and regions, leaving certain populations more vulnerable in crisis. Various factors, including infrastructure limitations (such as a lack of internet connectivity and limited access to devices), as well as income disparities, disparities due to age, gender, disabilities and language and the lack of literacy and digital skills can hinder specific groups and individuals from accessing essential services and information. To harness digital technologies for effective and inclusive crisis response, it is imperative to address the digital literacy gap and enhance digital device accessibility. This entails a comprehensive approach that considers the diverse needs and circumstances of different populations.
Disparities in access, adoption and effective use of digital technologies among various levels of government can obstruct the integration of technology for multi-level crisis coordination and management, impeding citizen engagement and service delivery. Bridging this divide requires targeted initiatives to ensure equitable access, build digital capabilities and promote collaborative frameworks throughout government structures.
Security and privacy concerns
The increasing reliance on digital technologies exposes government systems to cybersecurity risks, including the threat of data breaches and cyberattacks that can compromise critical information. Implications of these risks extend far beyond mere data compromise, potentially impacting the reliability and functionality of digital tools, affecting communication, coordination, and the delivery of essential services during crisis. This could, in turn, hinder the crisis response and jeopardize the safety and well-being of the population. The implementation of robust cybersecurity measures becomes paramount to safeguard data and critical infrastructure against potential threats.
Moreover, the use of digital solutions in crisis response raises concerns about compromising data privacy and security, with possibly far-reaching consequences for individuals. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were concerns about the collection and use of personal health data by governments and private companies. Potential misuse of data by malicious actors underscores the importance of comprehensive data protection measures, including robust encryption protocols, stringent access controls and clear policies governing data usage. Safeguarding sensitive information is not only crucial for the effectiveness of crisis-related efforts but also for maintaining public trust.
Misinformation and disinformation
Digital platforms, like all forms of media, are susceptible to misuse for disseminating false or inaccurate information, whether intentionally or unintentionally. This misinformation can deceive or manipulate the public, eroding trust in crisis response efforts, inducing panic and impeding cooperation. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the spread of misinformation regarding the virus and its transmission resulted in confusion and harmful behaviours. Moreover, false information can misguide local or national authorities involved in crisis response, leading to ineffective decision-making and resource allocation.
Disinformation campaigns may exploit crises for political gain, manipulating narratives to serve specific agendas. This can not only divert attention from effective crisis responses but also foster divisions within communities. In regions experiencing unrest and conflicts, such campaigns can intensify tensions and contribute to the escalation of violence.
Programming suggestions
Ensuring the continuity or restoration of core government functions in crisis demands a multi-facetted approach encompassing various programmatic strategies, project choices and capacity-building objectives. In this context, digital programming emerges as a transformative force with significant potential. However, it is crucial to recognize that digital transformation for government resilience is a comprehensive and continuing process, requiring long-term and whole-of-government efforts well before crises occur. It is also important to underline that digital programming for core government functions in crisis should serve as a means to an end rather than the ultimate goal, encouraging a balanced approach that avoids overreliance on digital solutions.
The following section outlines three programming entry points, aligned with the UNDP’s Digital Transformation Framework and a comprehensive whole-of-society approach to digital transformation. These entry points are not exhaustive and do not diminish the relevance or importance of other potential programming opportunities associated with core government functions in crisis. Moreover, the selection of entry points and approaches may differ based on each country’s unique circumstances. Therefore, utilizing the Digital Compass is strongly recommended for gaining insights into a country’s specific digital maturity level, facilitating the development of tailored and context-specific approaches.
Connectivity: Physical infrastructure and access enablers
The digital approach to core government functions in crisis is heavily dependent on connectivity, encompassing elements such as broadband, mobile internet and electricity. This approach emphasizes the need for robust and high-quality physical infrastructure while also focusing on the affordability and accessibility of services and products. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of connectivity in socio-economic inclusion, especially in crisis contexts, affecting access to education, healthcare, remote work, and political participation. Addressing these challenges requires integrated technological, financial, and regulatory efforts. While governments, the private sector, and international financial institutions (IFIs) play key roles, UNDP can significantly contribute in the following ways:
Offer support to governments in assessing digital infrastructure (particularly in crisis-prone regions), and in developing and implementing digital infrastructure plans that are resilient to future crises. Additionally, help explore innovative financing solutions to address the financial challenges associated with connectivity projects.
Facilitate partnerships with the private sector, civil society, academia and development partners to assist governments in addressing connectivity challenges, especially in securing internet access during crises. This may involve deploying integrated services routers, exploring satellite internet solutions, establishing community Wi-Fi networks and creating internet-enabled community centres.
Work towards mitigating the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion by providing digital literacy training through various channels, such as e-learning, radio programmes and TV broadcasts. Collaborate with governments and the private sector to make affordable digital devices accessible to underserved populations. Conduct public awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of digital literacy and the benefits of technology adoption.
Support the implementation of off-grid solar power systems in hard-to-reach or crisis-affected areas, ensuring sustainable power solutions and facilitating continued access to essential services during challenging circumstances
Establish emergency connectivity protocols and deploy mobile units equipped with portable internet and communication technologies to be swiftly activated during crises. These units ensure immediate connectivity solutions in areas where infrastructure is damaged or non-existent. UNDP can assist in planning, resource mobilization and deployment, ensuring that essential communication channels remain open during emergencies.
Government: Open government
Another important aspect of the digital approach to core government functions in crisis revolves around the government’s accessibility, responsiveness and accountability. This involves leveraging data, communication, collaboration and participation mechanisms to ensure effective emergency response, foster multi-level governance coordination and engagement with other stakeholders and facilitate transparent information sharing. Below are some programming suggestions for UNDP.
Support government institutions in effectively utilizing diverse digital communication channels to supplement traditional modes of communication, ensuring timely and accurate information reaches citizens during crises. This may involve:
Developing and implementing robust social media strategies to share timely updates, safety instructions and important announcements, ensuring the integrity of information,
Collaborating with governments to establish or enhance emergency alert systems using various communication channels, such as text message alerts, push notification through mobile applications and automated voice messages,
Supporting the development and deployment of dedicated mobile applications for crisis communication,
Conducting online monitoring and sentiment analysis to provide real-time data on emerging narratives, prevalent misinformation and disinformation content, its sources and amplifiers and public opinion.
Facilitate the establishment of interactive platforms where citizens can engage with authorities, ask questions, express concerns, provide information and participate in decision-making during crises. This may involve:
Developing dedicated social media channels and mobile applications to gather feedback, conduct online surveys and polls,
Creating virtual collaboration platforms, including online forums and virtual townhalls,
Implementing chatbots for streamlined automated interactions, which can seamlessly integrate with various communication channels, including phone and social media platforms,
Establishing online feedback systems and grievance redressal mechanisms,
Implementing contact centre systems to create help or triage lines or desks connecting people with the necessary assistance during crises.
Support the development of open data portals, making relevant and up-to-date information accessible to the public. Transparency and accountability tools play a crucial role in monitoring government actions, ensuring that responses are aligned with established priorities, which contributes to building trust and resilience within communities.
Support the creation of accessible digital dashboards that offer real-time insights into government activities, particularly during crises These dashboards should feature key performance indicators, status updates on government initiatives and data-driven visualizations. By offering a transparent view of government actions and progress, these dashboards can enhance public trust and ensure citizens are well-informed about government responses to crises and significant events.
Develop and implement capacity-building programs for government officials to enhance digital literacy and understanding of open governance principles. These programs should focus on data analysis, digital communication and ethical use of digital tools, with an emphasis on maintaining transparency and accountability in interactions with the public. Equipping officials with these skills enhances citizen engagement, particularly in times of crisis, fostering open and participatory governance.
Government: Digital public services and platforms
Digital public services and platforms play a vital role in sustaining government functionality during crises, leveraging data and technology to inform decisions, shape policies, optimize crisis responses and ensure public service continuity. Digital public infrastructure, covering identification, data exchange and payments, serves as a foundational backbone essential for the effective provision of digital public services. Consequently, prioritizing the development and maintenance of robust, inclusive and rights-based digital public infrastructure becomes essential for governments looking to enhance the delivery of digital public services in both routine and crisis situations. Some programming suggestions are provided below.
Support government efforts to strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks along with institutional capacities for digital transformation. A successful digital transformation for resilience requires comprehensive governance frameworks encompassing relevant policies, strategies and regulations such as those addressing data protection, interoperability, cybersecurity, e-signature and digital legal identity. Effective implementation necessitates strong capacities, fostered through continuous and coordinated efforts across the entire government, particularly in preparation for crises.
Assist in establishing robust data collection systems to acquire and analyse data, fostering evidence-based decision-making for emergency preparedness and response. This may involve utilizing digital technologies to gather, aggregate and interpret data, supporting scenario planning and the development of response strategies. Digital tools can also be used to analyse the impact of crises, including their spatial dimensions, thereby providing essential information for emergency response, policy decisions and resource allocation.
Support the integration of technology into the processes of government and legislative bodies, recognizing their critical role in sustaining decision-making functions during crises. Implement systems like e-Cabinet or e-Parliament to enable officials to work and meet remotely, access documents electronically, vote online and live stream the proceedings. Ideally, these systems should connect to e-libraries, citizen engagement platforms and other governments systems for enhanced information access.
Explore digital solutions that empower crisis management teams, such as data visualization software, communication tools, real-time data analytics and collaborative platforms. These tools can enhance decision-making, inter-agency coordination and the distribution of supplies and workforce during crises.
Implement public sector capacity development initiatives tailored to different crisis scenarios. These initiatives could include traditional training, simulation exercises, cross-agency coordination drills, remote work trials and training using digital communication and collaboration tools. Post-crisis evaluations should be conducted to analyse the effectiveness of crisis management strategies.
Support the creation of crisis-responsive e-government platforms. Developed as part of broader digital transformation efforts, these platforms can deliver timely updates and crucial information, featuring real-time notifications, interactive maps for locating emergency resources and dedicated crisis communication sections. They can offer centralized access to essential services during emergencies. Ensuring mobile-friendly and accessible interfaces which can be read by those with low bandwidth is essential for reaching a broad audience during emergencies.
Support governments in developing a suite of digital public services to mitigate vulnerabilities during crises. These services encompass document applications, bill payments, healthcare, social welfare and business registrations. Crisis settings may also require dedicated services and platforms such as telehealth and digital education platforms.
Implement digital platforms for mental health and psychosocial support during crises. These platforms could offer resources such as teletherapy, online counselling, self-help tools and community support forums. Ensuring accessibility across diverse demographics and languages is crucial for inclusive mental health support in times of crisis.
Assist in implementing digital platforms to enhance information exchange and foster effective aid coordination between governments and development partners in a secure and privacy-preserving manner. This could involve deploying real-time data-sharing tools, establishing an aid information management system for streamlined aid tracking and reporting and developing tools for beneficiary monitoring. Such systems will ensure that information is managed and shared seamlessly while maintaining data security and privacy standards, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of aid coordination.
Support inclusive, as part of broader digital transformation efforts. This involves comprehensive assistance for interoperable civil registration, vital statistics, and identity management systems. Additionally, specific digital identity solutions can be provided to support people on the move, including initial registration for receiving aid or services, enhancing protection and security and facilitating integration into host communities.
Implement digital payment systems that leverage both traditional banking and non-banking infrastructures such as mobile money to enhance accessibility, affordability and financial inclusion, especially for hard-to-reach and marginalised communities. This will provide for the disbursement of financial aid to eligible employees, citizens and businesses in times of crisis.
People: Civic engagement
Digital tools can enhance civic engagement during crises, empowering communities, amplifying diverse voices and strengthening collective response efforts. By leveraging these tools, communities can self-organise to better navigate challenging situations. Below are some programming suggestions for UNDP.
Establish digital volunteer networks for crisis support, enabling citizens to actively participate in providing aid and support during crises. These networks, facilitated by digital platforms, would coordinate volunteer efforts, manage resources and distribute aid while fostering community involvement and civic responsibility. Through these platforms, volunteers can be quickly mobilized for tasks such as disseminating crucial information, offering remote assistance and aiding in logistics and supply chains. These networks can also be mobilized to assist vulnerable population categories, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stakeholders
To support the above digital programming areas, it is important to consider a wide range of relevant stakeholders. These should be engaged and included to reinforce the capacity of each digital programming area, as well as improve crisis-mitigation, prevention and recovery.
Communities and end users
UNDP’s programmatic approach is built on participatory engagement and inclusiveness, ensuring that communities and end users of digital solutions are involved throughout. This improves take-up and adoption of digital governance interventions and also contributes to the sustainability of the solution.
Media and civil society organisations
Civil society organisations, including non-governmental organisations, thinktanks, community-based organisations and media outlets play a key role in promoting digital governance and holding governments accountable. They can provide important perspectives on the impact of digital technologies on democratic governance and human rights, helping to build public support for, and awareness of, programmes aimed at strengthening digital governance. Media outlets in particular can play an important role in informing and engaging the public, promoting transparency and supporting digital processes.
Governments and public institutions
National and local governments are key stakeholders in the design of programmes to strengthen digital institutions and processes, especially in terms of crisis preparedness and response. They have a pivotal role to play in implementing policies and regulations that promote digital governance, and they can provide important insights into the challenges and opportunities of digital technologies in this context. UNDP relies on strong relationships with government institutions to coordinate support and deliver appropriate programming interventions. Fostering ownership of digital technology solutions by government and other institutional actors is also critical to increase sustainability. UNDP supports line ministries in working together with ICT partners, ensuring that solutions are developed with the end users in mind.
Private sector
The private sector, including technology companies and service providers, profoundly influences the development and utilization of digital technologies, as well as the connectivity and promotion of responsible digital technologies that support digital governance initiatives.
Telecommunications companies Crisis response and recovery requires adequate and reliable communications infrastructure that can support digital governance delivery mechanisms, response coordination and communication. These are vital to delivering government services and responding to citizen needs.
Global technology companies The Development Data Partnership is a digital collaboration between international organizations and technology companies that facilitates the efficient and responsible use of third-party data in international development. The partnership, with its standardized legal, IT and governance procedures, as well as its vast network of data partners and vibrant data science community, enables UNDP teams to draw on vital datasets on labour markets, population movements, climate change, amongst others, allowing for evidence-based digital solutions to be designed and implemented. Another example is the internet support that Starlink provided in Ukraine, which demonstrated the importance of support from international tech companies in terms of crisis mitigation and post-crisis recovery.
United Nations
UNDP SDG AI Labs: SDG AI Labs has a diverse portfolio of work which they are currently implementing around technological innovations for UNDP.
UNDP Accelerator Labs: UNDP has a network of 90 Accelerator Labs supporting 115 countries with 270 experts focused on innovative solutions to development issues including prototyping, data collection, analysis and visualisation, artificial intelligence and machine learning.
UNDP’s Risk Anticipation Hub has developed Crisis Risk Dashboards (CRD) as a dynamic platform for monitoring and analysing multidimensional risks. This evidence-based tool informs anticipatory decision-making within UNDP and supports collaborative efforts with partners to proactively address fragility and prevent crises.
Development partners
Development partners, including bilateral and multilateral agencies and IFIs, are important stakeholders in the design and implementation of programmes to strengthen digital institutions and processes, including for crisis preparedness and response. Their contributions extend to providing financial resources for infrastructure development and access to technologies, sharing expertise in policy formulation, supporting capacity building to empower government officials in navigating the complexities of digital governance.
Programming examples
In Ukraine, UNDP has supported a suite of digital services for internally displaced persons (IDPs), including digital status determination, address change registration and services for application for financial aid and government programmes. These services have been seamlessly integrated into a centralised mobile application and online portal, providing Ukrainians with a convenient one-stop-shop to engage with their government.
UNDP created a digital platform with all e-services available in Azerbaijan during COVID-19. This one-stop shop covered over 250 resources across health, education and social services – including telemedicine, virtual schooling, crowdfunding campaigns, food support for vulnerable groups and services for the elderly.
During the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, UNDP collaborated with the UN Mission for the Ebola Emergency Response and other partners to champion digital payment solutions, ensuring the swift disbursement of salaries and hazard incentives for over 60,000 Ebola response workers in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.
UNDP developed the Infosegura dashboard to provide countries in the Central American region and Dominican Republic with relevant data to aid multidimensional analyses of challenges related to citizen security issues.
