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In an exclusive interview at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Estonia’s Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, discussed the country's digital strategy and its global influence.
Estonia, a small northern European nation, has emerged as a global leader in digital governance, setting a benchmark for efficiency, transparency, and security. With 100% of government services available online, the country has built a system that ensures accessibility for all citizens, regardless of location or status. By leveraging digital infrastructure, it has streamlined bureaucracy and fostered a corruption-free environment where trust is paramount.
Transparency lies at the heart of Estonia’s digital success. Citizens can track how their data is accessed by government authorities through a dedicated mobile application, reinforcing confidence in the system. Unauthorized access is strictly penalized, ensuring accountability and reinforcing a secure digital environment. To safeguard its digital society, Estonia has implemented advanced cybersecurity measures, including the X-Road system, which seamlessly and securely connects government databases. This approach to data exchange has been adopted by other nations, including Ukraine.
At LEAP 2025 in Riyadh, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Estonia’s Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, discussed the country’s digital strategy and its global influence exclusively with Liji Varghese, Editor of MIT SMR Middle East. She addressed some crucial questions:
- How has Estonia’s cybersecurity and digital infrastructure been successfully implemented domestically and internationally
- How does Estonia guarantee trust and transparency in its digital society?
- How can governments harness AI to improve public services while ensuring ethical innovation and trust?
Estonia’s focus on transparency, cybersecurity, and trust has created a governance model that balances efficiency with quality public services. Its digital transformation journey offers valuable insights for nations seeking to modernize governance.
MIT Sloan Management Review Middle East is hosting the GovTech Conclave—a high-level gathering of government leaders, ministry officials, policymakers, and industry experts. This event will explore the latest technological advancements shaping the future of governance. Join the conversation. Register here to be part of the conclave.
