The Digital Transformation in Public Administration and its Impact on the Guarantees of Public Employees in the Saudi System: A Comparative Analytical Study

Abstract

This research aims to explore the digital transformation in public administration in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its impact on the guarantees afforded to public employees,  along with the implications of this transformation. The study is conducted in light of Saudi Vision 2030,  which has led to a major shift toward automation and the use of digital technologies in administrative processes. While this shift has enhanced transparency and expedited service delivery,  it has also necessitated a closer examination of the resulting effects on public employees and their professional safeguards,  with a comparative perspective drawn from other legal systems that have undergone similar digital transitions.

The study adopts a comparative analytical approach to examine the structural changes in public administration brought about by digital transformation,  and how these changes have affected the rights and guarantees of public employees. It highlights both the positive and negative consequences of digitalization on public servants—especially as the human role in administrative processes has significantly diminished. This reduction has prompted various governments to introduce regulations and frameworks to ensure the effectiveness of employees' roles and protect them from potential harm or infringement on their job-related rights.

The study concludes with recommendations emphasizing the need to update employment regulations in line with the requirements of digital transformation in public administration. These updates should aim to preserve the rights of both the public employee and the administrative body,  achieving a balance that strengthens the government's ability to deliver services to citizens while safeguarding the rights and freedom of public servants.