E-government in Asian countries: a conceptual framework for sustainable development

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine the factors contributing to e-government development as a means to foster sustainable development, highlighting the need for robust e-government frameworks to navigate economic, social and environmental challenges. Design/methodology/approach A literature-based conceptual framework is presented, grounded in the comparative analysis of e-government in five diverse Asian countries. The paper introduces a research model with testable propositions and synthesizes lessons for future research, emphasizing the integration of e-government with sustainable development goals. Findings The key findings identify three critical factors for e-government development: policy priorities and strategic initiatives, ICT infrastructure and public–private partnerships investment. The research underscores e-government’s role in providing electronic services that support transparency and democracy, which are essential for sustainable development. Research limitations/implications Limitations arise from focusing on select Asian countries, potentially affecting the generalizability of results, as well as the dynamic nature of technology and policy landscapes. Practical implications This paper underscores the essential role of governmental action in advancing sustainable development via e-government strategies, providing a framework for success in both developing and developed contexts. It demonstrates how e-government can drive sustainability by comparing the progress of five Asian countries to highlight best practices and challenges in implementing such systems effectively. Originality/value The paper uniquely bridges e-government and sustainable development research, showing e-government’s role as a sustainable development instrument. This novel integration is supported by extensive literature and a strategic selection of countries representing varying stages of e-government maturity, providing a well-rounded view of e-government’s impact on sustainable outcomes.