institutional quality, political stability, and level of development. Therefore, critical policy recommendations emerge from these findings, and include the following:

- Improving government effectiveness through enhanced public policy formulation and implementation, along with capacity building for civil servants, stands as a foundational recommendation. This involves investing in targeted capacity building and training programs, updating essential infrastructure, and implementing streamlined processes, such as those focusing on the efficiency of public service delivery. By bolstering the capabilities of government agencies in these specific areas, countries can ensure more efficient and responsive governance. This, in turn, directly impacts citizens' engagement by facilitating smoother interactions and delivering improved services.

- Improving institutional quality through transparency and anti-corruption efforts is a crucial step in fostering an environment conducive to citizen participation. This recommendation entails implementing and strengthening anti-corruption institutions and measures, ensuring transparent decision-making processes, and holding public officials accountable, namely through reporting or public disclosure requirements. These efforts contribute to building trust in institutions, encouraging citizens to actively engage in civic processes, and voice their concerns. Ultimately, these measures enhance the overall effectiveness of GovTech reforms.

- Fostering political stability and an improved social contract are identified as a key factor in encouraging citizen participation. This recommendation involves implementing policies that promote political stability, conflict resolution, inclusive governance, and state legitimacy. Concrete examples could include mechanisms for resolving conflicts peacefully and ensuring representation from diverse groups. Stable political and democratic environments provide citizens with the confidence to engage actively in civic activities, contributing to a more robust and participatory democracy.

- Ensuring inclusive, reliable, and affordable access to electricity and the internet is pivotal, especially in developing nations and African countries. This recommendation emphasizes infrastructure development to provide widespread access to essential utilities. Improved connectivity not only facilitates the use of GovTech platforms, but also contributes to overall economic development and societal progress. This comprehensive approach ensures inclusiveness as citizens, regardless of location or economic status, could actively participate in decision-making processes.

- Promoting digital literacy through education and training emerges as a critical step in preparing citizens for effective engagement with GovTech platforms. This recommendation involves integrating digital literacy programs into educational curricula, offering training sessions for the general population, and fostering partnerships with NGOs and private entities. Digital literacy empowers citizens to navigate and utilize GovTech tools, making their engagement more meaningful and impactful.

# **References**

Aidt, T. S. (2009). Corruption, institutions, and economic development. _Oxford review of economic policy_ , _25_ (2), 271-291. Asadullah, A., Faik, I., & Kankanhalli, A. (2018). Digital Platforms: A Review and Future Directions. PACIS, 248.

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