People

Our research focuses on empowering individuals to exercise their agency through technologically mediated interactions and in digital environments. 

As a thematic area within UNU-EGOV, it emphasizes the importance of connected and engaged communities as essential components of effective governance. Our primary focus is on promoting digital inclusion and accessibility, as well as meaningful e-participation. We recognize that equitable access to digital/digitized resources, services, and skills is crucial for fostering a just and sustainable society, while also promoting gender equality. 

We also explore the concept of global citizenship as it intersects with technology, developing and promoting policies, programmes, and scholarship to support individuals in navigating digital spaces and tools responsibly and effectively. 

Community-driven and led digital initiatives are highlighted as a means to mobilize local knowledge and capacities, fostering collaboration and co-creation to address systemic challenges. Through this comprehensive approach, UNU-EGOV aims to develop research frameworks that enhance community leadership and capacities to engage in and shape governance processes in meaningful ways. 

By prioritizing these elements, UNU-EGOV research, education, and consultancy aims to enhance community engagement in policy- and decision-making processes and contribute to more democratic, rights-respecting models of governance, technology design and development, and knowledge mobilization.