It was a humbling moment. As I logged into the virtual meeting representing The RegTech in an UN expert group discussion on e-government and digital governance, I felt the weight of the occasion. The online platform buzzed with voices from every corner of the globe, each bringing a unique perspective to the digital transformation conversation. Yet, amidst the gravity of the task at hand, there was an undeniable spark of hope, a collective yearning to bridge the digital divide and create a future where technology serves everyone, not just the privileged few.
The dialogue, hosted by the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) and supported by the UN DESA’s Digital Government Branch, marked a fundamental step in assessing progress since the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) two decades ago. Being one of only two private-sector representatives in that virtual room was not just an honour; it was a call to action. The discussions were a poignant reminder of how far we have come and how much further we must go to ensure that digital transformation does not leave anyone behind.

“True strength of technology is not just in making life easier for a few but in empowering everyone, everywhere. Holistic Future of Digital Governance invites you to discover how innovation is restructuring the way governments work, communities thrive, and people connect.“
The RegTech published an ebook to support the process of preparation for the WSIS 20+.
The RegTech: Reflecting on Two Decades of Progress—And the Work Ahead
As I listened to the discussions, I couldn’t help but marvel at the achievements spurred by the WSIS action lines. Over the last 20 years, e-government initiatives have redefined how societies function. From restructured public services to heightened transparency and economic development, these efforts have laid the foundation for an information society that is efficient, inclusive, and aspirational.
Yet, this progress is not universal. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, millions still stand on the wrong side of the digital divide. Limited infrastructure, lack of digital literacy, and entrenched socio-economic barriers mean that for many, the promise of a digital future remains just that—a promise.
This isn’t merely a technological issue. It is a profoundly human one. When we talk about access to the digital world, we are talking about access to opportunity, education, and justice. This realization hit home for me. Technology is not neutral; its benefits and harms are distributed based on choices we make. Every decision about infrastructure, literacy programs, and capacity building carries the potential to either widen or close the gap.
For me, this is personal. I think of the communities we’ve connected with, where a single digital solution, for an example, transformed not just the amount of revenue Governments raise but the way nations approach taxes. I think of the faces of people who—armed with a phone or tablet—see their horizons expand beyond the boundaries of their circumstances, as digital public services come near. These moments remind me that inclusivity in digital transformation is not just a metric or a policy priority—it is a moral imperative.
Trust: The Bedrock of Digital Governance
Amidst the dialogue, one word surfaced repeatedly: trust. Trust in governments, trust in institutions, trust in technology itself. It’s a fragile thing, easily broken and hard to rebuild. Concerns over privacy, cybersecurity, and unclear governance processes have created a chasm between technological capability and public confidence. I’ll just mention the hot topic of much needed digital identity adoption, which for a good reason raises many eyebrows across the globe.
And yet, trust is the cornerstone of any digital transformation. Without it, even the most sophisticated systems falter. Building trust requires more than words; it demands action. Transparent practices, strong data protection frameworks, and unyielding accountability must become the standard. Governments and organizations alike must prove, time and again, that they are worthy of the public’s confidence.
But trust is not the only challenge. As we build digital infrastructure, we must also grapple with its environmental cost. From energy-intensive data centers to e-waste piling up in landfills, the carbon footprint of the digital economy is significant. True sustainability means adopting energy-efficient technologies, prioritizing e-waste recycling, and aligning every digital initiative with global environmental goals. If trust is the soul of digital transformation, then sustainability is its conscience.

The Hidden Potential of Fiscalization
Fiscalization and e-invoicing had to be mentioned! These terms often fly under the radar in digital transformation debates, yet their impact is profound. These B2C and B2B tools have transformative potential in underserved regions, facilitating governments to mobilize revenue more efficiently. This efficiency, in turn, funds essential investments in broadband access, infrastructure, and public services—laying the groundwork for a more connected and equitable society.
When citizens trust their tax systems and see tangible benefits in their communities, they are more likely to participate in the formal economy. Picture a small business owner in a rural town, once operating informally, now issuing e-invoices and contributing to a transparent tax ecosystem. This simple shift fosters accountability, builds trust in institutions, and unlocks access to services and resources that were previously out of reach.
The ripple effects of fiscalization extend far beyond revenue collection. Thru formalizing economic activities, governments can more effectively target investments, prioritize underserved regions, and close gaps in public service delivery. These tools also enhance transparency, reducing opportunities for corruption and misuse of funds. It is a virtuous cycle: trust leads to participation, participation generates revenue, and revenue enables development. They are about people and guaranteeing that every individual, whether in rushing urban centers or remote rural areas, has a stake in the digital economy. It is all about turning the abstract concept of a digital divide into a tangible roadmap for progress and equity.
The RegTech: Why Collaboration is Non-Negotiable
If there was one takeaway from my time with the UN expert group, it was this: no single sector can drive digital transformation alone. Public-private collaboration is not an amenity; it is a requirement. Governments bring scale and equity to the table, while companies like The RegTech contribute innovation, agility, and technical expertise. Together, we can create platforms that are secure, interoperable, and inclusive – platforms that not only empower individuals but also restore trust in institutions.
At The RegTech, our mission is rooted in this belief. Through partnerships with governments, NGOs, and academia, we address foundational challenges like digital literacy, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Whether it’s supporting educational programs or investing in underserved regions, we are committed to building a resilient digital society that leaves no one behind.
Daunting Work Ahead
For me, this passage is not just a professional venture; it is deeply personal. It is about amplifying voices from developing regions, encouraging dialogue, and crafting solutions that honor humanity’s shared aspirations. It is about creating a digital legacy rooted in equity, transparency, and sustainability.
Further, as the 20th anniversary of WSIS approaches in 2025, The RegTech recognizes that the need to act has never been greater. The next phase of digital transformation must place people, not technology, at its center. Solutions must be accessible, relevant, and secure. They must reflect the diverse realities of communities across the globe and effectively support the closure of digital divide.
The work ahead is daunting, but it is inspiring as well. Also, I feel a profound sense of hope. The conversations we started in that virtual room have the power to outline a future where technology unites rather than divides. Digital world that transcends borders and bridges divides, a world that truly works for everyone, is at our fingertips.

Founder of The RegTech, focused on inclusive digital policies and scalable solutions through multilateral collaboration for global governance and development.