TRANSPARENCY AND TRUST IN THE ENVIRONMENT OF ELECTRONIC GOVERNMENT: THE ROLE OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS AND GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of rapid digital transformation, electronic government has become a fundamental mechanism for redefining the relationship between the state and society. Transparency and trust are increasingly recognized as critical prerequisites for effective governance, yet many countries continue to face a crisis of public confidence caused by bureaucratic inefficiency, limited accountability, and insufficient openness. Purpose. The purpose of this article is to examine the role of e-government in enhancing transparency and building public trust, as well as to determine the significance of public communications and institutional capacity in ensuring effective interaction between government and citizens. Methods. The research is based on a combination of general scientific and specialized methods, including analysis and synthesis for conceptual generalization, comparative analysis to distinguish traditional and digital governance models, a systems approach to examine e-government as an integrated phenomenon, and statistical analysis of international indices measuring trust and digital development. Results. The findings demonstrate that e-government significantly contributes to transparency by enabling open data access, reducing administrative barriers, and improving service delivery. Digital tools facilitate citizen engagement through feedback mechanisms, participatory platforms, and e-democracy instruments. At the same time, the study reveals that technology alone does not automatically generate trust; it must be supported by ethical governance, effective communication strategies, and inclusive policies. The analysis of international practices highlights the importance of user-centered design, institutional trust, and data governance frameworks. Key challenges include cybersecurity risks, digital inequality, insufficient digital literacy, and institutional resistance to change. Conclusion. It is concluded that e-government serves as a strategic platform for strengthening transparency and trust, provided that it is implemented in conjunction with robust public communication, data openness, and citizen engagement. Governments should prioritize cybersecurity, promote digital literacy, expand e-democracy tools, and adopt a human-centered approach to digital services. These measures will ensure sustainable development of trust-based governance systems in the digital era.