Speaker
Description
Development of a Global Citizen-Centric e-Governance and Awareness Platform (GlobeGov)
Author from PSI 2015: Sonali Mohapatra
Seeking members for this group. Please see link in "Presentation Materials" section to apply.
Abstract:
In an era defined by rapid globalization and complex international challenges [1], the need for inclusive, transparent, citizen-centric, and engaging governance has never been more pressing. However, a significant gap persists between global institutions and the citizens they impact, exacerbated by a lack of awareness, inaccessible and opaque data platforms, and the pace of technological development leaving behind a substantial portion of the global population.
The rapid advancement of cross-cutting, general-purpose technologies, such as quantum computing [2] and artificial intelligence (AI) [3], has led to the uncovering of a wide range of their applications across various sectors, including medicine, drug discovery, military, transport, space, energy, and climate change. As these technologies progress and their potential impacts become more evident, we are witnessing an unprecedented convergence of science and social sciences. This convergence is crucial for understanding and addressing the complex, interconnected challenges facing our world today. Furthermore, with an increasingly diverse workforce fostered over the last two decades, it is essential that we harness this diversity to foster innovation and develop lasting solutions to global risks. By leveraging the unique perspectives, skills, and experiences of individuals from different backgrounds, we can unlock new approaches to problem-solving and create a more resilient, adaptable, and inclusive society. Moreover, with increasing public frustration with traditional models of representative politics which feel increasingly out of touch, there is a pressing need to be bold in our experimentations by learning from pioneering innovations in digital democracy taking place across Europe and beyond [4] and integrate them with powerful technological developments to spearhead innovations at a global scale.
The Global Citizen-Centric Governance Awareness Platform (GlobeGov) is an ambitious initiative that aims to transform global governance by educating, empowering and enabling citizens worldwide to actively participate in decision-making processes and collaborate on solutions to pressing global challenges such as climate change, digitalisation, migration, depleting resources, and food security. Recognizing the interconnectedness of global challenges and the imperative for a united, citizen-driven approach to governance, GlobeGov builds upon previous digital e-governance, and citizen-centric social innovation models trialed in various parts of the world over the last two decades [5]. The platform emphasizes the role of technology, education, and transparent, inclusive platforms in enabling a shift towards a governance model that respects the planet and its inhabitants. By doing so, GlobeGov aims to bring together our collective human intelligence and knowledge across various sectors to operationalize calls for collective action, redefine global priorities, and implement solutions that ensure a sustainable and just future for all.
GlobeGov will democratize access to key data that forms the basis of global governance decisions and policy outlines through innovative technologies, accessible data visualization methods, and engagement strategies. The platform will serve as a comprehensive hub for data on international institutions, policies, funding, and their effects on global and local scales. By aggregating data, facilitating intelligent discussions, and offering immersive experiences, GlobeGov aims to educate and engage citizens in global governance processes, making these systems more accessible, accountable, and responsive to the needs of people everywhere. At its core, GlobeGov is a comprehensive digital platform that combines data aggregation and analysis, educational resources, and interactive tools for citizen engagement. The platform will feature a robust database of international treaties, policies, and funding flows, enabling users to access and explore critical information about global governance structures. Through AI-powered analytics and visualization tools, GlobeGov will provide citizens with personalized insights and recommendations, empowering them to make informed decisions and contribute to policy discussions.
GlobeGov will also serve as a platform for experimentation and innovation in global governance. Through features such as virtual town halls, simulated governance games, and collaborative policy drafting tools, citizens will have the opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers, propose solutions, and have a chance to get more involved with international policies. To ensure the platform's accessibility and impact, GlobeGov will prioritize inclusivity and, over time, partner with grassroots organizations and leverage offline engagement strategies to reach marginalized communities. The initiative will also emphasize rigorous impact measurement, using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to assess its effectiveness in promoting citizen engagement, enhancing transparency, and driving progress towards the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
The development and implementation of GlobeGov will require significant resources and collaboration across sectors. We are seeking an initial grant of 5,000 CAD to support the first phases of the project, including platform design, data acquisition, and stakeholder engagement. This seed funding will lay the foundation for the platform's development and build momentum for further investment and collaboration.
References:
[1] World Economic Forum Global Risks Report 2024
[2] Quantum computing just might save the planet | McKinsey
[3] 5 ways AI is doing good in the world right now
[4] Six pioneers in digital democracy | Nesta
[5] Digital Social Innovation | Nesta
External references
- 24060010
- b0728e04-b202-4d21-8fad-1cce6d9db48f
