Citizens' Attitudes to e-government: a Study across ten Russian regions

The evolution of e-governance and the institutionalization of digital government is accompanied by contradictory trends. Expanding the technological capabilities of providing electronic public services stipulates a more convenient and effective way for citizens and governments to interact. On the other hand, the innovative nature of e-communication with the e-government creates citizens’ concerns about the security of personal data. Public sentiments associated with fears of increasing control over the population through the use of electronic services are becoming more pronounced. The increasing uncertainty and the lack of digital competencies actualizes the problem of trust in the e-government. This research examines Russian citizens’ perceptions and attitudes towards digital government in terms of assessing their activity and level of trust in electronic services. The factor analysis was performed on the basis of data collected in telephone surveys across ten Russian regions.