The German University of Digital Science is delighted to announce the 5th International Conference on Digital Science in the Transformation of Bureaucracy, a two-day hybrid event scheduled for November 2026. This conference critically examines how digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and new organisational models are reshaping administration, governance, and service delivery in the public, private and civil society sectors.
The conference features distinguished keynote addresses, thematic panel discussions, and curated networking opportunities, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among participants from academia, government, business and civil society.
Context and Rationale
Administrations of every kind are under significant pressure to change. Climate, migration, ageing populations, and renewed demands for resilience are forcing organisations to rethink their design, governance models, and operational practices. Artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making, and platform technologies are opening genuinely new possibilities for redesigning administrative processes, while also introducing risks around accountability, bias, security, and democratic legitimacy.
Societal Impact and Controversies
A wide range of topics within this domain hold substantial societal relevance and are frequently the subject of ongoing debate. Key issues include:
● The merits and risks of AI-assisted decision-making in public services, including algorithmic bias, deskilling, and accountability gaps.
● The tension between efficiency-driven digital reform and the preservation of professional and citizen discretion.
● Questions of equity and accessibility in digitally transformed administrative services.
● Democratic legitimacy and public trust in automated governance systems.
These discussions are continually evolving as new developments rapidly emerge in the field.
Emerging Trends and Future Directions
Although artificial intelligence dominates current discourse, several other areas warrant attention. Blockchain, low-code platforms, robotic process automation, and immersive simulation-based training all present fertile ground for ongoing research. The future of public administration will be shaped by meaningful integration of these technologies, enhanced digital literacy, and robust ethical standards. This conference seeks to explore these transformations and facilitate discussions on strategies for adaptive, accountable, and effective governance.
