Policy creation, legislation and regulation provide the operational structure for society. And proof of identity is the key to many services that government provides for citizens.

The internet, websites, AI, blockchain, digital identity, facial recognition, drones and satellites are all tools that can help government to operate more effectively, increasing efficiency in public order and safety services and reducing the need for many over the counter services.

At the same time, technology and AI will allow citizens to better manage their own needs more efficiently and directly themselves. This will modify the relationship between government and citizens in ways yet to become clear.

For example, decision making may devolve from a central to distributed model where individuals and communities make decisions and initiate projects locally from the grass roots up, rather than from government down. We are at an early stage of what may become possible.

Government employment is protected by strong sector unions and the vested interest of politicians unwilling to upset voting constituencies.