From Digits to Delight: Unravelling the Influence of E-Government Maturity on Public Happiness in Indonesia

This study investigates the impact of e-Government initiatives on public happiness through ordered probit analysis. Utilizing data from two distinct sources—a survey measuring happiness levels and a provincial e-Government Index—the research uncovers significant insights. Specifically, it identifies a notable negative relationship between the advancement of e-Government initiatives and public happiness levels. Robustness tests, instrumental variable analyses, and heterogeneity assessments further substantiate these findings. Moreover, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the influence of technological advancements in public sector on citizen happiness. It underscores the necessity for nuanced policy interventions to align technological progress with societal welfare objectives. These findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers navigating the evolving landscape of digital governance practices in their pursuit of enhancing citizen well-being.