On September 4, 2024, the Fudan Institute for Global Public Policy (IGPP) organized the 62nd lecture of the Fudan-LSE Lecture Series. Professor Karl Löfgren from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, delivered a lecture on the theme of 8 Myths about Digital Government, which was chaired by Yijia Jing, Dean of IGPP. Associate Professor Ziteng Fan from IGPP served as the discussant.

Professor Löfgren is the Dean of the School of Government, with research interests in public administration, public policy, and emerging governance models. He also serves as the Associate Editor of Public Administration Review and the Book Review Editor for Information Polity.

Professor Löfgren started with the concept of digital government, elaborating on the distinction between e-government and digital government. He also highlighted how the concept of digital government manifests differently across countries.

Professor Löfgren then analyzed 8 myths about digital government, delving into the challenges and limitations of digitalization in the public sector. Despite the increasing ubiquity of internet access, he emphasized that certain groups choose not to use the internet due to a lack of motivation or skills, underscoring the enduring presence of the digital divide. Additionally, he examined the potential impact of artificial intelligence on the role of policy analysts and the dual effects of digitalization on public value creation and work-life quality.

Associate Professor Fan highlighted that overlooking social participation and inclusivity during the process of digital transformation could result in social exclusion and undermine the creation of public value. Following this, Professor Löfgren engaged in a lively discussion with the audience.

On behalf of the IGPP, Professor Jing then presented a gift to Professor Löfgren, and the lecture concluded successfully with warm applause.