Policies aimed at promoting the digitalization of government processes are experiencing significant growth in Latin America, both at the local and regional levels. Although these initiatives have the potential to facilitate access to public services, they also present the risk of complicating such access and endangering the fundamental rights of citizens. Therefore, progress towards government digitalization demands a prioritization of transparency and privacy protection.
Recently, in November, the Digital Agenda 2026 for the region was approved in the context of the IX Ministerial Conference on the Information Society in Latin America and the Caribbean. This initiative, driven by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), aims to improve efficiency and transparency in public administration through the digitalization of processes and services. An essential component of this agenda is the creation of digital identity systems that facilitate access to public services while promoting regional integration.
However, the digital transformation of the State faces significant challenges. Often, the pursuit of efficiency translates into budget cuts that can limit access to public processes and affect fundamental rights. Although digitalization can simplify access, it can also complicate it, especially for vulnerable groups with limited access to technology and digital knowledge.
The incorporation of digital technologies in public administration does not automatically guarantee greater transparency or citizen participation. To achieve these goals, it is crucial for governments to implement policies that encourage active citizen participation in the design and implementation of public policies, as well as in the digital transition of States.
It is essential to approach the use of digital identification systems and data interoperability with caution, as the lack of privacy and security guarantees can lead to mass surveillance and erosion of individual privacy. Individuals should have the right to opt to maintain the use of physical documents, rather than solely relying on digital platforms.
An area of concern is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector. Costa Rica has been a pioneer in Central America in implementing a national AI strategy focused on improving public services. Likewise, Brazil has announced an AI plan that includes projects that could be beneficial to society, though they pose significant challenges regarding the management of personal data.
In Argentina, the new government has enacted regulations that allow security forces to use cyber surveillance and artificial intelligence technologies. While these actions are justified under security arguments, they have raised concerns about potential abuses and lack of transparency in their implementation.
Protecting human rights within the framework of government digitalization is crucial. Efforts are emerging to establish accountability frameworks that guide the use of artificial intelligence and other algorithmic systems in decisions that affect people. Promoting transparency and accountability in the use of surveillance technologies is essential to maintain public trust and ensure that digitalization does not compromise fundamental rights.
As Latin America advances towards greater digitalization, it is imperative that this process be inclusive and respectful of human rights, ensuring that technology empowers citizens rather than alienating them from the State. Civil society plays a key role in this task, with an open debate on the implementation of promising technologies that must be managed with a firm commitment to fundamental rights.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
