Digitalization in Vienna: NEOS calls for AI funding for the future!

Digitalization in Vienna: NEOS calls for AI funding for the future!

In an exciting discussion about digitalization in Vienna, Ines Holzegger, NEOS digitalization spokesperson, set the course for the future at a district meeting in Döbling. The meeting brought together numerous interested parties to discuss the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in Austria. Holzegger, who is also active in several committees, underlined the importance of a common digital identity document in the form of ID Austria, which acts as a modern “digital master key” and represents an important step towards administrative modernization.

With ID Austria, Austria has positioned itself well to improve everyday life and the economy through digital solutions. This further development of the cell phone signature offers citizens a secure, electronic identity that should be available to everyone by 2030. [Bundeskanzleramt] emphasizes that ID Austria plays a central role in online procedures and guarantees legal security for electronic signatures.

Hurdles in federalism

Despite these positive developments, there are challenges that need to be overcome. As [wien.neos] reports, Austrian federalism is slowing down many important projects as each administration develops its own systems. To counteract this, the NEOS are calling for a comprehensive register and system network that should enable better networking of administrative data. This could significantly increase the accessibility and efficiency of government processes.

Digital transformation is not just a question of technology, but also a social challenge. Holzegger emphasizes that artificial intelligence (AI) must also be viewed in this context. The use of AI is intended to optimize, but not to take over administrative decisions. This view is supported by the intention to develop our own AI models and establish transparent applications in administrative work.

Vienna as a pioneer for innovative technologies

Another promising step is Vienna's application together with the federal government to become one of five EU Gigafactories for AI. An AI factory in Austria can provide a huge economic boost for the location and aim to reduce technological dependencies, especially in key technologies such as AI and cloud.

But the digital revolution also requires a strong foundation. With the Digital Austria Act, which defines a variety of measures and principles, Austria is pursuing a clear strategy to actively shape digital change. It is also important to make access to administration easier and improve usability. Around 90 percent of all administrative transactions are already possible online, and the aim is to increase this figure to 100 percent.

In summary, it can be said that digitalization is gaining momentum in Austria, but there are still numerous challenges. With their commitment, the NEOS, led by Holzegger, show that they are ready to take on these challenges and actively fight for digital progress.