Las TIC como altavoz de gobiernos locales. Análisis de las páginas web oficiales de ayuntamientos de los pequeños municipios de la CAPV / CITs in Local Governments. Analysis of the official websites of small municipalities in the Basque Country

This study analyses the digital presence of small municipalities (under 2,000 inhabitants) in the Basque Country, focusing on their official websites as tools for public communication, service provision, and local promotion. It highlights the significant digital expansion: over 93% of these municipalities now maintain a web presence. The content analysis reveals varying levels of usability, institutional transparency, and multilingual accessibility. While most websites are updated and include tourist information and local news, institutional data—such as budgets, council minutes, and online public services—is often lacking, especially in Alava. The study identifies the role of provincial digital initiatives (e.g., BiscayTIK, IZFE) in facilitating administrative modernisation in Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa. However, the integration of Web 2.0 tools and social media remains minimal. Findings underscore the need for strategic digital planning, particularly for small rural municipalities with limited resources. Enhanced coordination, inter-institutional support, and focus on information accessibility could foster democratic participation and increase governmental transparency. The research provides an empirical basis for policy recommendations in digital governance at the local level.