Smart Governance in Romanian Municipalities: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities

Recent advancements in technology have profoundly influenced the service delivery mechanisms within the public sector. Romanian municipal governments are increasingly integrating digitalization into their developmental frameworks, aiming to implement web-based platforms for public services to enhance efficiency and accessibility for their citizens. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this digital transformation, compelling public institutions to shift from traditional in-person services to online platforms. This study evaluates the readiness of Romanian city halls to embrace digitalization, providing new insights into the resilience of public institutions in the face of technological change. It examines the service provision through the official web portals of Romania's 103 municipalities. The research indicates significant progress in the digital transformation of services from 2014 to 2023, with most municipalities now offering online functionalities such as property tax payments, public transportation information, and civil status documentation. However, the study also identifies inconsistencies in service quality and availability, highlighting the need for standardized digitalization practices. The findings offer valuable insights for public institutions in enhancing digital service delivery, and contribute to the broader discourse on technology's role in public sector.