However, almost half of respondents perceive the public administration to be far behind the private sector, which underlines the urgent need to accelerate the digital transformation in state institutions.
Romania currently has an average level of digitalization, according to respondents, with infrastructure and the digitalization of private companies as strengths. On the other hand, public administration and the digital skills of the population require improvements, underlining the importance of investments in digital education and the modernization of state services.
Digitalization – between opportunities and fears
While Romanians want more efficient digital public services, there are also significant concerns. Six in ten believe that digitalization could facilitate government surveillance of the population, and over half (57%) are concerned about how personal data is used without their consent by big tech companies. This data suggests that the success of digital transformation depends not only on implementation, but also on ensuring clear data protection measures.
The main barriers to digitalization
Romanians identify several barriers that slow down the adoption of digital technologies. Among the obstacles identified by Romanians are the lack of digital skills (43%), insufficient training of public sector employees (37%), and corruption or political interests (36%). Also, using public digital platforms is difficult for many citizens – 51% of Romanians do not access them, 25% say they are afraid that their data could be stolen, and one in five say they encounter technical problems.
Internet use: information, entertainment and services, but less education
The internet is mainly used for socializing and entertainment (77% are active on social media and 76% watch videos online). Digital services are also popular, with 61% paying bills online and 60% accessing banking services. Digital education, however, remains limited, with only a quarter of respondents reporting using online learning materials.
Digital education: desire to learn, but preference for physical instruction
Although interest in digitalization is high, most Romanians prefer traditional learning methods. 31% of Romanians declare that they have a high level of technological knowledge, and less than a third (27%) ask for help when they encounter difficulties. Furthermore, the preference for face-to-face courses over online training suggests that educational programs need to adapt to this trend.
Digitalization of public administration – the main priority for citizens
Romanians identify several priority areas for digitalization. The most important are paying taxes (45%), followed by obtaining personal documents (37%) and appointments at public hospitals (33%). Digital access to prescriptions and medical certificates (37%) is also a major concern, highlighting the need to simplify essential services.
Edge Institute Priorities
For digitalization to have a real impact, it must be seen as an integrated and sustainable process. Edge Institute identifies several strategic directions
- increasing the level of digital education
- digitalizing public services
- developing effective public policies for a competitive digital economy.
*studiul a fost realizat în a doua jumătate a lui 2024 pe un eșantion reprezentativ la nivel național, 18+, format din 1500 de respondenți, prin interviuri față în față la domiciliul respondenților, folosind un pas statistic de selecție a respondenților.