One data, one identity: An analysis of the once-only principle in e-governance and its relevance to public service efficiency
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61511/gg.v2i2.2025.2936Keywords:
digital democracy, e-governance, once-only principleAbstract
Background: This study examines the implementation of the once-only principle in Norway’s e-governance system and analyzes its relevance for improving public service efficiency in Indonesia within the broader framework of digital democracy. The Nordic countries are widely recognized for their success in developing integrated data governance systems that support transparency, citizen participation, and bureaucratic effectiveness. In contrast, Indonesia continues to face significant challenges related to institutional fragmentation and lack of interoperability among digital systems across government agencies. Methods: This article aims to analyze how the once-only principle is implemented through Norway’s digital identity system and to evaluate the potential for its adaptation in the Indonesian context. This research adopts a qualitative approach based on a literature review of policy documents, government reports, and academic studies related to e-governance, data integration, and bureaucratic reform. Findings: The analysis reveals that Norway’s success is supported by strong institutional coordination, high levels of public trust, and a robust legal framework for data protection, which together enable effective and efficient data reuse across agencies. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s institutional fragmentation, sectoral ego, weak interoperability, and low public trust contribute to data duplication and service inefficiencies. The findings also show that the theory of data as public infrastructure is reflected in Norwegian practice, whereas in Indonesia data is still treated primarily as institutional property. Conclusion: This study concludes that adapting the once-only principle in Indonesia requires strengthening a central coordinating authority, establishing binding interoperability standards, and developing strategies to build public trust so that efficiency gains do not come at the expense of data protection. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this research lies in integrating the analysis of the once-only principle with issues of digital democracy and public trust, thereby highlighting not only technical aspects but also the political and social dimensions of Indonesia’s digital transformation.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Achmad Wafa Muzaki, Anisa Cahyani Maulida, Putri Revalina Salsabila Khairani
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