New publication examines the opportunities and challenges of Digital Public Infrastructure
New publication examines the opportunities and challenges of Digital Public Infrastructure
As governments around the world accelerate their digital transformation, questions about how digital systems are designed, governed, and regulated are becoming increasingly important. A new publication co-authored by TAIMI researcher Edemilson Paraná explores these issues through the concept of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
Link to the publication: Click here.
Published by the Brazilian Institute of Applied Economic Research (IPEA), the discussion paper Digital Public Infrastructure: Approaches, Initiatives, Tensions and Research Agendas examines how governments are using digital identity systems, digital payment infrastructures, and data-sharing platforms to deliver public services and support societal development.
The publication reviews international experiences with DPI and highlights both its potential benefits and its governance challenges. While digital infrastructures can improve access to services, efficiency, and innovation, they also raise important questions concerning data governance, inclusion, public accountability, digital sovereignty, and the growing role of private technology companies in public-sector digitalization.
The authors argue that digital public infrastructure should not be viewed solely as a technological issue. Its development is closely connected to broader societal questions about democracy, public value, institutional capacity, and equitable access to digital services. The publication therefore proposes future research and policy agendas aimed at strengthening inclusive and publicly accountable approaches to digital transformation.
The study is particularly relevant for countries seeking to balance technological innovation with social inclusion and democratic governance. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation and capacity building to support the development of secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital infrastructures.
The publication contributes to ongoing global discussions about how societies can harness digital technologies in ways that promote public value while addressing emerging social, political, and economic challenges.
Authors: Tulio Chiarini, Alexandre Arns Gonzales, and Edemilson Paraná.