Extended Monaco | Review & outlook 2022

The ‘Extended Monaco’ report provides a comprehensive look at how Monaco is leveraging digital technology to enhance its public services, boost the local economy, and improve the quality of life for its residents. Here’s an in-depth summary of the report’s key components:

1. Government digital transformation:

The government has been spearheading the Extended Monaco program since 2019, with the goal of using digital technology to modernise administrative services and make them more accessible to the public. The initiatives are aimed at enhancing both government efficiency and the convenience of residents.

• MonGuichet.mc: This platform has become the core of Monaco’s digital services. It offers access to over 120 government services, including applications for residence permits, school enrollments, car registrations, and requests for state-owned housing. The platform has streamlined many traditional paper-based processes, making them quicker, more accessible, and more secure. The success is evident in its adoption rate, with over 80% of users choosing online services where available​.
• Monaco Santé: This digital health platform serves as the backbone of Monaco’s e-health strategy. It facilitates online appointment bookings, access to healthcare professionals, and storage of personal health data. In 2022, the platform added features like teleconsultations and secure messaging between health professionals to improve data sharing and avoid errors in patient care. In 2023, more features will be added, including the ability for patients to securely share documents with doctors​.
• Monapass: This all-in-one mobility app allows users to manage various transportation options, including buses, electric bikes, and parking. It also provides access to tickets for cultural venues and events, helping to integrate public transport and leisure activities into a seamless digital experience. Since its launch, the app has been downloaded over 30,000 times, with 2,400 daily users​.

2. Digital identity:

Monaco has developed a robust digital identity system, which was launched in 2021. This system allows residents to securely access all online government services using their Monegasque digital identity (available via identity cards and residence permits). The digital identity is integrated with services like MConnect, a mobile app that enables users to access government portals, sign documents electronically, and manage their personal data.

This identity system ensures security and convenience by allowing residents to access a wide range of services without visiting government offices. The system is being expanded, with plans to integrate Face ID and Touch ID features to further enhance security and user convenience​.

3. Boosting economic development:

Digital technology is also being used to foster economic growth in Monaco, both by helping local businesses embrace digital transformation and by making the Principality more attractive to international investors.

• Blue fund: Launched as part of Monaco’s digital recovery plan, this fund supports local businesses in their digital transition. It co-finances digital transformation projects, with an emphasis on enhancing productivity and increasing competitiveness. Since its inception, the Blue Fund has supported over 700 projects, investing €20 million and generating €42 million in economic activity. The program has helped companies adopt cloud technologies, cybersecurity measures, and e-commerce solutions. The fund has also played a role in job creation, with over 3,500 people receiving digital training​.
• Sovereign cloud: Monaco launched its sovereign cloud in 2021, making it the first country in Europe to have its own national cloud infrastructure. The cloud offers businesses secure and high-performance data storage and computing resources. It is an essential asset for companies in Monaco, providing them with the tools they need to innovate and grow while maintaining strict data protection standards​.
• MonEntreprise.mc: This digital platform simplifies administrative processes for businesses, offering services like online registration, business licenses, and access to government resources. It aims to reduce the time businesses spend on administrative tasks, enabling them to focus more on growth and innovation.

4. Education and digital learning:

Monaco has made significant strides in integrating digital technology into its education system, with the aim of preparing the next generation for careers in an increasingly digital world.

• Digital college and high school: Monaco has equipped 100% of students at Charles III College and Lycée Albert I with digital tools, including laptops and tablets. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to integrate digital learning tools into the classroom, making lessons more interactive and engaging. The government also offers digital literacy programs for parents and students, ensuring that the entire community benefits from Monaco’s digital transformation​.
• Programming from Kindergarten: Monaco’s digital education program starts early, with students being taught programming skills from kindergarten. This initiative aims to foster digital literacy at an early age and prepare students for future careers in technology​.

5. Digital access to culture:

In 2022, Monaco launched a digital platform to promote the country’s rich cultural offerings. This platform provides information on local cultural events, museums, and exhibitions, making it easier for residents and tourists to access and enjoy Monaco’s vibrant cultural scene.

• Centralised cultural platform: The platform consolidates ticketing, event schedules, and cultural content into one user-friendly interface. It aims to improve the visibility of Monaco’s cultural offerings, attract tourists, and enhance the quality of life for residents by giving them easy access to cultural activities​.

6. Support for new residents:

Digital technology is also helping new residents settle into life in Monaco by simplifying the relocation process and offering a range of services designed to make their transition smoother.

• Digital services for new residents: Residents can complete essential tasks like applying for a residence permit, enrolling children in school, and exchanging a foreign driving license—all online. The government also offers a digital platform to guide newcomers through the various stages of settling in Monaco​.
• Feedback from residents: Many new residents have praised the simplicity and efficiency of the online services, highlighting the convenience of completing administrative tasks without the need to visit government offices​.

7. Future directions:

Monaco is continuously working to improve its digital services. Upcoming projects include the expansion of digital services for job seekers, new e-health features, and more advanced smart city technologies that will optimise urban management and enhance residents’ quality of life​.