From e-government to digital state: assessing the digital maturity of public administrations in Eastern Europe

Abstract

The transition from e-government to the digital state represents a central strategic priority of the European Union, targeting the efficiency of public administration, the interoperability of systems, and citizens’ access to digital services. Our paper examines the digital maturity of public administrations in Eastern European countries using the DESI Digital Public Services indicators and the eGovernment Benchmark 2024 framework. Descriptive statistical analysis, correlation coefficients, and k-means clustering applied to 2021–2024 data reveal four distinct performance groups. The Baltic States (Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia) achieve scores well above the EU27 average, demonstrating high digitalization and effective reform implementation. Romania and Bulgaria consistently occupy the bottom of the regional ranking, reflecting significant institutional and infrastructural gaps. The findings confirm the structural role of European cohesion funds and the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 in supporting the transition to the digital state, while highlighting the need for country-specific investment strategies and enhanced digital skills development.