A series of studies have shown that a digital divide exists, where some citizens find it easier to use digital solutions in public administration than others, and some experience that it has become more difficult to access relevant information and guidance, as well as to obtain the rights and social benefits intended by the law.
The significantly increased digitalization of administration places considerable demands on citizens to find relevant information on their own and to actively participate in the processing of their cases. As a result, citizens are burdened with a substantially increased administrative load. This is particularly true if the citizen has an atypical or complex case involving multiple sets of regulations. The ambitious plans to implement software robots and automate decision-making will only accentuate this.
Digitalization of public administration can lead to increased inequality in access to public services and benefits. Digitalization may therefore act as a barrier, preventing some citizens from receiving the services they are entitled to. This is especially problematic if it predominantly affects citizens with a special need for assistance, as they are the ones excluded from access. There is thus a risk that social inequality will be reinforced through digital inequality.
The purpose of the project is to analyze the development of the law, including possible implications for the concept of law and its application.
A range of various research activities.
