Evidence-based approaches in digital policy, regulation and governance

01.09.2025

Introduction to evidence-based decision making As the digital economy expands rapidly in many parts of the world, policymakers and regulators face ongoing challenges in keeping pace with innovative technologies and services that impact ICT markets. The governance of the digital ecosystem represents one of the most complex and dynamic challenges facing policymakers. The rapid pace of technological innovation, the global scale of digital platforms, and the profound societal impact of new technologies demand a regulatory approach that is both robust and adaptive. To address these challenges, many countries are assessing their current regulatory principles and practices to align them with…

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Country case studies: Good practices in EBDM

01.09.2025

Theme: Regulatory governance Type: Section Date: 2025-08-26 To provide further insight into how policymakers and regulators may incorporate EBDM and RIAs into their decision-making processes, five country case studies are highlighted below as they represent good practices. Canada and South Africa provide examples of good EBDM practices while Australia, Brazil, and the United Kingdom show how regulators may approach RIAs. EBDM case studies: Canada and South Africa Canada and South Africa have taken an “all-of-government” approach to implementing EBDM across sectors by adopting regulations that apply to all ministries and regulators. The fundamental principles represented in the national regulations on…

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National approaches to RIA: Australia, Brazil and United Kingdom

01.09.2025

Theme: Regulatory governance Type: Section Date: 2025-08-26 As with policy initiatives and regulatory regimes, there is no “one size fits all” approach to conducting RIAs. While basic principles and processes apply in all cases, each country adapts these practices to their own unique needs, capacities, and legal frameworks. The following case studies from Australia, Brazil, Rwanda, and the United Kingdom showcase the similarities, difference, and outcomes of RIA processes around the world. In each instance, governmental authorities have published written, comprehensive guides, procedural rules, or statutory instruments requiring RIAs specifically (and potentially EBDM more broadly). Whether adopting government-wide or agency-specific…

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Guide to Meaningful Public Consultations: Collaborative Regulation from Foundations to Sustainable Practices

29.08.2025

About this Guide This Guide was jointly developed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Ofcom, the UK’s independent communications regulator. The Guide is a new tool in the portfolio of tools for national regulators and regulatory associations to support evidence-based decision-making. It provides practical guidance and a blueprint for effectively engaging and conducting regulatory consultations with stakeholders from government, private sector, and civil society and enhancing the outcomes of stakeholder involvement in policy and decision-making processes. Using a blended approach, the guide draws from insights from 13 interviews with regulators across all regions, various resources on good regulatory practices…

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