Publisher's Synopsis
Smart Country-Connected. Intelligent. Digital. demonstrates how the opportunities inherent to digitization can strengthen social inclusion and improve the quality of life across all socioeconomic groups and regions in Germany. The global survey of good practices, conducted for the Reinhard Mohn Prize, allows the Bertelsmann Stiftung to recognize innovative approaches and effective solutions to sociopolitical problems. To award the prize it carries out a global search for exemplary programs and initiatives. This prize highlights innovative solutions to a variety of challenges in eight countries. These states offer digital solutions in key areas such as health care, mobility, education, and politics, thereby helping their societies address the challenges associated with demographic change and rapid urbanization. A comprehensive digital strategy is needed if governments are to enable full and active participation in society for everyone. On-site research was conducted in countries considered the world's pioneers of digitization: Austria, Estonia, Israel, and Sweden. The lessons learned in each regarding promulgating a political digital strategy, expanding Internet infrastructures, improving digital competences, and ensuring the smart application of digital technology have much to offer Germany.
