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E-government development and governance in MENA countries: an empirical study

Author

Listed:
  • Mohammed S. AL-REFAI

    (Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia)

  • Mohamed Ali SAAD

    (Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia)

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study is to examine the impact of e-government on a battery of governance indicators in a sample of 17 Middle East and North African countries during the period 2003-2019. Methods/Approach: The analysis is based on advanced econometric tools, which consist of second-generation panel data techniques allowing the control of cross-section dependence and slope homogeneity when estimating the short- and long-run impacts of e-government on governance. Results: The preliminary analysis suggests the presence of slope homogeneity and cross-section dependence in the data, while the second-generation panel unit root test indicate that all variables are stationary at first-difference. The second-generation panel cointegration test indicates the existence of long-run relationships between e-government adoption and governance indicators. Furthermore, the PMG-ARDL confirms that role of e-government in reducing corruption and improving the rule of law in the long-run. On the other hand, no significant impact of e-government on voice and accountability, government effectiveness, and regulatory quality were detected. The short-run analysis also reveals no effects on governance. Conclusions: These results are important for improving institutional quality in the MENA region via the adoption of e-government.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohammed S. AL-REFAI & Mohamed Ali SAAD, 2024. "E-government development and governance in MENA countries: an empirical study," Access Journal, Access Press Publishing House, vol. 5(1), pages 7-20, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:aip:access:v:5:y:2024:i:1:p:7-20
    DOI: 10.46656/access.2024.5.1(1)
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ayad Hicham, 2019. "The Effect Of Terms Of Trade On Current Account Balance: Harberger-Laursen-Metzler Effect In Arabic Countries," Journal of Smart Economic Growth, , vol. 4(1), pages 17-30, Mars.
    2. Elbahnasawy, Nasr G., 2014. "E-Government, Internet Adoption, and Corruption: An Empirical Investigation," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 57(C), pages 114-126.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • A10 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - General
    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • H83 - Public Economics - - Miscellaneous Issues - - - Public Administration

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