THE TRANSITION OF PUBLIC SERVICES TO DIGITAL FORMAT
In our country, which is taking steps towards national development, digital technologies, in particular the e-government system, are developing rapidly. It is no secret that public services are gradually shifting to a digital format. However, not everyone has the same attitude toward this system. While some public activists consider
such a system to be a matter of convenience and transparency, another group of people views it as a threat to personal privacy. In fact, which of these two views is more beneficial for our society?

Indeed, the digital government system is an innovative approach that meets the demands of modern times and provides broad opportunities for citizens. Its supporters emphasize several important advantages of this system.

First, public services are provided in a prompt and simplified manner. Processes such as applying, formalizing documents, or making various payments are now carried out online, without queues, and in a convenient format. Second, the digital system is becoming an effective tool in reducing corruption and ensuring transparency.
Because all data is recorded digitally, the ability to control increases. This reduces the human factor and prevents illegal situations. Furthermore, equal service access is created for all regions. Now, citizens living in remote areas can use the same services through the internet as city residents, which serves to strengthen social equality.

According to the latest data from the State Statistics Committee, the level of use of e-government services among the population in Uzbekistan in 2024 was 67 percent. The fact that 72 percent of them expressed satisfaction with the services and confirmed the efficiency of the system is proof of our point.

As the saying goes, “Every nation has its customs, everyone has their opinion,” those who view this system with caution are also putting forward their objections. On the one hand, the collection and storage of citizens’ personal data raise concerns. If information is not sufficiently protected, it can fall into the hands of malicious individuals. On the other hand, there is a risk of cyberattacks and technical failures. It shows that many digital systems around the world have been subjected to cyberattacks, and millions of people’s data have leaked onto the internet.

Along with this, citizens’ trust in their own data is low. Due to an insufficient level of digital literacy, people do not fully understand this system and use it with anxiety. A clear proof of this can be found in a study conducted in 2023, which showed that the share of the population aged 16–74 in European Union countries possessing at least basic digital skills was 54%.

In my opinion, although the digital government system has many positive aspects, it is also necessary to take into account concerns regarding security and privacy. In this regard, attention should be paid to further improving the system, protecting data, and increasing citizens’ trust. Thus, managing the e-government properly and securely can be the most optimal path for the future.

In conclusion, I am a supporter of the e-government system because it speeds up public services, increases transparency, and creates convenience for citizens. Of course, security issues are also important, but the positive aspects far outweigh them. As the famous scholar Alvin Toffler said: “The future begins today.”