A study of information and communication technologies and good governance in Armenia

Abstract

The main purpose of this research is to explore and analyze the current situation with application of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in governance and its impact in promotion of democracy in Armenia. The paper starts with discussing different definitions of e-governance and good governance. Then it presents two examples of the contribution of Information and Communication Technologies to local governance in Latin America and India. The paper next reviews the potential role of ICT in transforming governance in Armenia. Then the paper reviews UNDP Country Office in Armenia Country Cooperation Framework for Armenia from 1997 to 2004 time period, introducing the program area of good governance with its two sub-programs: (a) development of information and communication technologies as a medium for better governance and (b) capacity building of key governance institutions and consolidation of democracy. The final part of the paper focuses on findings of the interviews, results of the survey among the students as well as the analysis of websites and management information systems of the selected ministries. The paper finally presents a set of recommendation to government on further development of ICT tools in governance to strengthen impact on the process of democratization.