2384: How Estonia Built a Digital Society and E-government

Ever wonder if Estonia’s digital transformation is everything it’s cracked up to be? Wonder no more. I'm about to show you. Embark on a journey through the future with Estonia – a country that has produced the largest number of unicorns per capita in Europe. My guest today is Ott Velsberg, Estonia's Government Chief Data Officer and a driving force behind the country's digital revolution. From discussions at the Tallinn Digital Nomad meetup to a deep dive into Estonia's digital government infrastructure, our conversation with Ott promises an inside look into a future where public sector innovation matches—and even surpasses—that of the private sector. Estonia stands apart in a world where ease of use is often exclusive to private sector innovations like Amazon's One-Click Basket or Netflix's viewing continuity. Here, 99% of government services are available online, transforming the way citizens interact with the public sector. But how did this Baltic nation achieve this feat? Ott, a key player in implementing Estonia's open data, data management, and AI action plan, will help us decode this fascinating journey. From exploring the underpinnings of e-government to the sensitive topic of repurposing data with user consent, Ott's insights are bound to challenge conventional wisdom. We'll also touch on the role of AI in public service, the implications of data privacy regulations, and the concept of the 'Sputnik moment'—how countries technologically advanced are leaving others behind. If you're curious about the power of technology in governance, the future of AI, or the role of data consent in a digitally driven society, this episode is a must-listen. Brace yourself as we uncover the remarkable story of Estonia's digital leap and how it continues to reshape the world's perception of what's possible in the public sector.