WILLEMSTAD – It is high time for the government to make significant strides in the digitalization of its services to better and more efficiently serve citizens and businesses. With the launch of new digital systems and platforms, the accessibility and transparency of government services will be further enhanced.
Better Access to Government Services
Currently, government ministries operate in silos, meaning that IT systems are not integrated. As a result, inter-ministerial processes, such as permit processing, are slow and inefficient. To address this, substantial investments must be made in government automation and digitalization (SMART Government), enabling the implementation of a single digital portal.
With the introduction of such a centralized portal, citizens and businesses will have faster and easier access to important government services. At the same time, the government’s operational structure must be redesigned to ensure a user-friendly experience, particularly for the elderly or those who prefer in-person assistance. Additionally, government buildings must be adapted to accommodate people with disabilities.
Focus on Cybersecurity and Privacy
Digitalization also brings challenges in data protection and cybersecurity. The government must, therefore, make significant investments in protecting personal data and preventing cyberattacks. "Through stricter laws and regulations and close collaboration with experts, the security of digital systems will be guaranteed," said Lysaira Ortela, candidate #17 on the MAN-PIN list.
Collaboration and Future Vision
Ortela further emphasized: "The government's digitalization strategy must be developed in close collaboration with the private sector, educational institutions, and social organizations. Such cooperation will not only accelerate the adoption of digital innovations but also improve the user-friendliness and effectiveness of these systems. Over the coming years, the government must prioritize further digitalization to ensure that Curaçao remains at the forefront of E-Government.”