Inclusive Governance in the Digital Era: Navigating Equity and Innovation in Intelligent Societies

Abstract:

As digital transformation reshapes intelligent societies, inclusive governance has emerged as a critical determinant of equitable development. This study examines how governments, civil society, and private actors collaborate to ensure digital innovations benefit marginalized populations—including low-income groups, persons with disabilities, and rural communities—across 10 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Drawing on 80 stakeholder interviews and policy analysis, it identifies three core governance models: participatory co-design, regulatory safeguards, and targeted capacity-building. Findings indicate that successful inclusive governance requires integrating digital tools with local contextual knowledge, addressing structural inequalities beyond technical access, and fostering accountability across sectors. The research contributes to debates on digital equity by proposing a “multilevel inclusion framework” that bridges technological innovation and social justice, offering actionable insights for policymakers seeking to build more equitable intelligent societies.