Guest Editorial: Special Section on eDemocracy and eGovernment (SIEDEG)

The papers in this special section focus on egovernment and eDemocracy. An information and knowledge society creates its value by gathering, processing, evaluating, and sharing digital products and services. However, no citizens can be left behind in the process of introducing Web-based technologies to the administration, as this creates a digital divide. Representatives of the governments, international organizations, and universities should develop a vision for eDemocracy and eGovernment. eDemocracy is defined as the support and enhancement of civil rights and duties in the information and knowledge society. Options for participation allow citizens to strengthen an open society. One option involves the inclusion of the citizens even in the early stages of the planning; improved information and discussion forums; barrier-free Web access in electronic votes and elections; and the formation of communities in different public sectors.