German Bundestag Explores “Digital Only” Principle in Public Administration Modernization
Berlin, Germany – July 30, 2025 – A recent publication from the German Bundestag, Drucksachen 21/1083, titled “Kleine Anfrage Zum Prinzip ‘digital only’ bei der Digitalisierung der Verwaltung” (Minor Inquiry on the “Digital Only” Principle in the Digitalization of Administration), sheds light on a crucial aspect of Germany’s ongoing efforts to modernize its public services. The document, released today at 10:00 AM, signifies a focused parliamentary interest in how the “digital only” approach is being implemented and its potential implications for citizens and the administration itself.
This “Kleine Anfrage” (minor inquiry) represents a standard parliamentary tool used by members of the Bundestag to request detailed information from the German government on specific policy areas. Its publication indicates that a group of parliamentarians has posed a series of questions regarding the government’s strategy and the practical application of the “digital only” principle as part of broader administrative digitalization initiatives.
The “digital only” principle, in the context of public administration, generally refers to the ambition to offer services and processes exclusively through digital channels. This aims to streamline operations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and provide citizens with more convenient and accessible ways to interact with government bodies. Proponents argue that it can lead to increased efficiency, cost savings, and a more modern, user-friendly public sector.
However, the nature of a “Kleine Anfrage” suggests that there are also underlying concerns or a desire for greater clarity surrounding this principle. Potential areas of inquiry might include:
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: How is the government ensuring that citizens who lack digital skills, access to technology, or reliable internet connections are not excluded by a “digital only” approach? What safeguards are in place for vulnerable groups?
- Data Security and Privacy: What measures are being implemented to protect sensitive citizen data within purely digital processes?
- Implementation Strategy and Timeline: What are the specific plans and timelines for adopting the “digital only” principle across different administrative sectors?
- Legal Framework and Interoperability: Are the existing legal frameworks sufficiently robust to support exclusively digital processes, and how is interoperability between different digital systems being ensured?
- Impact on Traditional Channels: What is the strategy for managing the transition away from traditional, non-digital service channels?
The publication of Drucksachen 21/1083 underscores the Bundestag’s commitment to scrutinizing the details of administrative modernization. It signals an active parliamentary engagement in ensuring that Germany’s digital transformation of public services is both effective and equitable for all its citizens. The responses to this inquiry will likely provide valuable insights into the current state and future direction of digital governance in Germany.
21/1083: Kleine Anfrage Zum Prinzip “digital only” bei der Digitalisierung der Verwaltung (PDF)
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