On behalf of the Austrian Parliament, the ITA has examined the opportunities and risks posed by the ongoing digitization of processes in public administration and what can be learned from other countries. In light of an impending wave of retirements in the public sector and growing global interdependencies, the new study outlines ways in which the government can maintain control over its data and technologies. The goal is to maintain Austria's and Europe's digital self-determination and to advance the digitization of public administration.

The key findings of the study are:

Independence through open source: To reduce dependence on market-dominating large corporations, there should be a greater reliance on open-source technologies. This would strengthen the domestic economy and make the infrastructure more resilient to crises.

Collaboration: For successful digitalization, the federal government, states, and municipalities must cooperate more closely to pool resources.

Putting People First: Both government employees and the everyday realities of citizens must be continuously taken into account.

Safe Use of AI: The use of artificial intelligence and data analysis in public administration requires clear rules, democratic oversight, and transparency. Public procurement plays a key role in this regard. It is essential to ensure that sensitive data remains protected.

The study's authors emphasize that Austria and the EU must work together strategically to create safe and sustainable systems for the future.

“To achieve a balanced power dynamic with providers, strategic coordination is needed among the governments of EU member states. Together, the public sector can ensure industry-wide compliance with responsible AI standards, thereby also enabling transparency and oversight,” concludes study author Doris Allhutter of the ITA.

Link to the Parliamentary Correspondence (in German only)

Link to the ITA-project