Armenia has received World Bank approval for the next stage of its Public Sector Modernisation Project (PSMP IV).
The €26.5 million ($A40.4 million) loan is the fourth funding a series of projects that are to assist the Government in improving the efficiency of, and access to, selected Government services for businesses and citizens.
Country Manager for Armenia at the World Bank, Carolin Geginat said accessing many public services in Armenia still required the physical presence of citizens, especially in rural areas.
“Challenges also exist for citizens to access already existing digital services,” Ms Geginat (pictured) said.
“A World Bank survey found that only five per cent of Armenian citizens and businesses currently use online Government services,” she said.
“The project recognises that a whole-of-Government approach is needed for digital transformation to promote simple, efficient, and transparent Government systems and public services.”
Ms Geginat said Armenia’s Digitalisation Strategy 2021-2025 laid the foundation for the development and implementation of this approach.
“Modernisation of public administration and efficient delivery of public services can foster inclusive growth and reduce inequalities,” she said.
“Streamlined and digitised business processes promote resource efficiency and improve the productivity of public services.”
She said a more effective public sector, capable of delivering efficient and accessible services, also provided greater equality of opportunities for citizens and supported the productivity of the private sector.
“The project builds on the gains of the previous three Bank-supported operations focused on modernisation of public sector functions and services in Armenia, with the application of technology for more efficient and accessible services,” Ms Geginat said.
Yerevan, 7 March 2022
