European and US City Leaders Launch GovTech Manifesto to Drive Digital Transformation

Government leaders from across Europe and the United States have launched a new GovTech Manifesto aimed at reshaping digital transformation by putting citizens, sustainability and public value at the centre of future technological development.

The initiative was unveiled during the GovTech 4 Impact World Congress 2026 in Madrid, where the first Mayors’ Leadership Forum brought together mayors, city officials and institutional partners to discuss the future of GovTech and public innovation.

Developed in collaboration with the Council of European Municipalities and Regions, the European Digital Infrastructure Consortium and the European Commission, the manifesto outlines a coordinated approach to digital transformation focused on improving quality of life, supporting climate goals and strengthening communities.

Organisers said the action plan aims to help cities move from fragmented pilot projects to shared systems and collaborative innovation by aligning procurement, funding and technological infrastructure across governments.

Rian van Dam, one of the leaders behind the manifesto, said cities and regions must act as “trusted anchors” for citizens during times of rapid technological and societal change.

He added that governments should focus on creating cities that “learn, listen and adapt,” while ensuring that people, nature and democratic values remain central to decision-making.

The manifesto promotes the use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure, while emphasising safeguards for public interest and sustainability. It also encourages the development of shared standards, regulatory sandboxes and innovation ecosystems to strengthen GovTech collaboration globally.

Among the leaders supporting the initiative was Tony Dyer, who said the manifesto outlines principles for delivering public services that are both people-centred and resource-efficient.

Vito Episcopo highlighted the need for Europe to build shared digital infrastructure capable of scaling innovation, while Matjaž Rakovec stressed that smart cities should prioritise people and sustainability over technology for its own sake.

The forum also included participation from leaders in Poland, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Spain, Slovenia, the Netherlands and the United States.

Shawyn Patterson-Howard said cities worldwide face common challenges in making government more efficient, responsive and impactful through technology, adding that stronger collaboration and innovation are essential for improving residents’ quality of life.

The Mayors’ Leadership Forum is expected to continue developing the manifesto’s action plan over the coming year, with progress updates to be presented at the next edition of the congress.

More information is available through GovTech 4 Impact World Congress