Romania positions itself as a key regional player in the digital transformation of public institutions by hosting the Digital Governance Summit 2025, an event organized by Edge Institute under the High Patronage of the President of Romania. On 25 November, Cotroceni Palace will bring together international reformers, European policymakers, technology experts and Romanian decision-makers committed to accelerating the modernization of the public sector.
A High-Level International Attendance
The Summit will be attended by Mr. Nicușor Dan, President of Romania, alongside some of the world’s most influential leaders in digital governance:
- Toomas Hendrik Ilves, former President of Estonia – widely credited as the architect of Estonia’s pioneering digital state model, recognized globally for its efficiency and citizen-centric approach.
- Janusz Cieszyński, former Minister of Digitalization in Poland – who oversaw the country’s transition toward modern, user-oriented e-government services.
- Radu Miruță, Romania’s Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism – who will address the role of digital transformation in strengthening economic competitiveness and institutional trust.
Additional speakers from Europe and beyond will be announced by 20 November 2025.
Digital Governance as a Pillar of Modern Democracy
In an era where technology shapes access to information, trust, and public accountability, digital governance is no longer optional — it is a core democratic function.
The event aims to highlight how governments can:
- improve public services through integrated digital platforms,
- reduce bureaucracy and operational inefficiencies,
- build resilient, transparent institutions,
- ensure equal access to services for all citizens,
- support economic growth through smart digital policies.
The Summit creates a collaborative space for the public sector, private companies, academia and civil society to design a shared roadmap for the digital state of the future.
Launch of the Edge Institute x AtlasIntel Study
One of the central moments of the summit will be the presentation of a new study by Edge Institute in partnership with AtlasIntel, analyzing:
- how Romanian citizens perceive digital government,
- the level of trust in public digital services,
- citizens’ priorities and expectations,
- areas where the state must accelerate modernization.
The study is a continuation of previous research conducted by Edge Institute regarding digital transformation in education and society.
“Technology doesn’t wait” — A Call for Strategic Action
Robert Berza, Executive Director of Edge Institute, emphasizes the urgency of digital transformation:
“Time runs fast and technology doesn’t wait. It is up to us whether we use it to rebuild trust in the state, strengthen institutional efficiency and support local economic growth — or remain spectators in a world moving faster than we do.”
His message echoes the summit’s mission: digital transformation must be strategic, inclusive and aligned with democratic values.
Participation and Further Information
The full agenda, details on participation and registration will be available at www.edgeinstitute.ro.
The Digital Governance Summit 2025 positions Bucharest as a European hub for dialogue on digital public administration — and invites all stakeholders to help shape the future of efficient, transparent and citizen-first governance.
