Impact of Digital Transformation on Sustainable Development

The impact of the digital transformation on countries’ sustainable development is increasingly
discussed in both theory and practice. This multidisciplinary book analyzes the implications of
digital technologies and services for governance structures and government action, particularly in
Kenya. Using the emerging concept of digital ecosystems, it uniquely combines digital
development, sustainability, and governance research. This book identifies factors characterizing
digital ecosystems and challenges to their sustainable digital development (e.g., lack of common
understanding, power asymmetries and dependencies of multi-stakeholders). For addressing
these challenges, it proposes coordination mechanisms including governance roles, governance
formats such as multi-stakeholder partnerships, as well as alternative solutions such as
coordinative digital platforms. These findings emphasize a deeper discussion around the digital
transformation as a driving force and the global emphasis on partnerships if these are to foster
and not impede sustainable development.

About the author

Carolin Stötzel holds a PhD in Political Science focusing on digital policy and international
cooperation. She is an expert in digital transformation, governance, and sustainable
development.