Issues of public vs. private collaboration and competition are already part of an international debate on governance. New rules may be needed to govern the relationship of the public and private sectors.

The question of where government controls end and the private sector takes over in e-government efforts is a difficult one to answer. Many governments are loath to cede power and authority to any private entity. The best way to proceed in joint or cooperative projects must be considered carefully, with public and private interests working together as partners, and not necessarily for political or economic gain. New partnerships and alliances can have unforeseen consequences, so it is important to be able to review new relationships frequently to ensure that both parties are pleased with the arrangement.

To foster public/private cooperation, the World Bank has created the Country Gateways portals, based on locally-owned and managed public-private partnerships whose mission is to facilitate innovative and effective use of the Internet and other ICTs to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. http://www.developmentgateway.org/node/137849/