DIGITALIZATION AND PUBLICS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN TÜRKIYE: A STUDY ON E-MUNICIPALITY POLITICS PRACTICES

This study examines how technological transformation reshapes public service delivery and local public policy in municipalities in Türkiye. As administrative units closest to citizens, municipalities represent key sites where digitalization, smart city technologies and e-municipality applications become visible in practice. The analysis focuses on selected municipalities of different sizes and evaluates digital initiatives in areas such as transportation, environmental management, social services, disaster response and urban security. The findings show that digital tools improve operational efficiency, accelerate service delivery and support participatory governance through online platforms. Applications such as smart transportation systems and digital social assistance programs enhance mobility, resource allocation and administrative responsiveness. However, the results also reveal structural challenges, including infrastructure gaps, digital inequalities, cybersecurity risks and limited institutional capacity. Overall, the study argues that technology functions not only as a service tool but also as a strategic policy instrument shaping sustainable, citizen-oriented and adaptive local governance.