"Innovating Governance through Technological Tools in Latin America"

Abstract

"In the last decade, digital governance continues to expand in Latin America, however, outcomes remain variable because of the ongoing structural divisions regarding connectivity, institutional capability, and regulatory structure. This work looks at how technology is changing governance by looking at transparency, inclusion, and the creation of value to the public. For the methodology, this research utilized an integrative literature review along with the comparative analysis of secondary data from global indicators, for example, GovTech Maturity Index, E-Government Development Index from the United Nations and regional connectivity data. The outcome of this study shows the contradictory nature of Latin America's digital government maturity level: although the maturity level of Latin America is higher than that of the global average (GovTech Index 0.591 vs. GovTech average for the world 0.552), massive disparities in the internet access rate (67.3% for Latin America versus 91.1% for OECD countries) for example, limit the inclusiveness of digital service provision. Furthermore, the emergence of governance models based on algorithms and civic technology present opportunities for efficiency and risks associated with bias, lack of transparency and regulatory voids. Therefore, this study makes a contribution to the existing literature by proposing a model for governance in which digital transformation and risk management (ISO 31000) are combined. It also highlights the need for a citizen-centric, contextually sensitive and rights-based approach to risk management in not only developing and enhancing digital governance but also ensuring that sustainable digital governance requires coordinated reforms in the institutions, oversight of ethical practice and investment in digital inclusion. © 2026 Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions. All rights reserved."