E-government policy processes at regional and national levels in the pacific: Actors, institutions and networks

Abstract

This chapter explores how policy processes at regional and national levels assist Pacific Island countries (PICs) and their various development partners translate the broader developments and possibilities advocated in global forums into workable solutions for each small states’ unique sets of circumstances. After first identifying and explaining the roles of the actors, institutions and networks engaged in e-government at regional level, it traces regional e-government policy dialogue over the past three decades. The chapter then examines policy processes at national level. Although policy dialogue at regional and national levels is related, it is only at national level that legislative frameworks are established, policies are implemented and major expenditure is incurred. Regional-level policy dialogue identifies needs and assists the coordination of capacity building and development assistance, but the roll-out of e-government in PICs depends to a great extent on the leadership and coordination capacity in individual countries.