The Smart Governance track explores the transformation of the state from a reactive administrative institution into a data-informed, intelligent, and citizen-centered ecosystem capable of anticipating needs, improving public services, and strengthening democratic accountability. It examines how artificial intelligence, digital platforms, data infrastructures, and algorithmic systems are reshaping the relationship between governments and citizens—from digital identity and service delivery to open data, civic participation, and evidence-based policymaking. Beyond technological efficiency, the track interrogates the deeper institutional, social, and ethical mechanisms that determine whether digital governance expands inclusion and public trust or reinforces existing inequalities and forms of algorithmic exclusion. We invite contributions that move beyond technology adoption narratives to uncover how digital transformation can create transparent, responsive, secure, and equitable governance systems that place human dignity and citizen empowerment at the center of public innovation. 

1. AI-Enabled Public Service Delivery: How does artificial intelligence transform the efficiency, responsiveness, and accessibility of public service delivery systems?

2. Digital Identity and Civil Registration: How can digital identity infrastructures strengthen inclusion, service access, and citizen participation while protecting individual rights?

3. Data-Driven Policy and Urban Governance: How does predictive analytics reshape government decision-making, planning, and resource allocation in complex social systems?

4. Open Data and Civic Engagement: How can open data platforms enable greater transparency, accountability, and meaningful citizen participation in governance?

5. Algorithmic Accountability and Public Trust: How does algorithmic decision-making influence fairness, institutional legitimacy, and citizen trust in government systems?

6. Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Digital Sovereignty: How can governments build secure digital infrastructures that balance innovation, privacy, and public accountability?

7. Inclusive and Equitable Digital Governance: How does digital transformation shape patterns of inclusion and exclusion among different communities and social groups?

8. Institutional Capacity and Governance Transformation: How can governments develop the capabilities, policies, and organizational structures required for sustainable digital governance?

Important Dates:

• Abstract Submission: 15th August 2026

• Paper Submission: 15th September 2026 (Midnight EAT)

• Peer Review Feedback: 30th September 2026

• Revised Paper Submission: 30th October 2026

• Early Bird Registration: 30th October 2026

• Late Registration: 15th November 2026