The Influence Of Artificial Intelligence On E-Governance And Cybersecurity In Smart Cities

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly transformative role in the development of smart cities by reinforcing the robustness of e-Governance systems and strengthening cybersecurity measures. With the exponential growth in data exchange, digital infrastructure, and citizen-centric services, urban environments face unprecedented risks from sophisticated cyber threats. This study explores the intricate interrelationship between AI, e-Governance, and cybersecurity in smart cities by proposing a novel framework that integrates machine learning algorithms with stakeholder-driven governance models. Leveraging Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the study evaluates the mediating effect of e-Governance on the relationship between AI implementation and cybersecurity outcomes. It further investigates the moderating role of stakeholder involvement, including government agencies, private sector entities, and citizens, on the AI–e-Governance and e-Governance–cybersecurity axes. The methodology involved collecting quantitative data from over 478 participants using structured surveys, followed by model validation through confirmatory factor analysis. The results reveal a partial mediation effect, where AI directly enhances cybersecurity, but its impact is significantly amplified when filtered through efficient e-Governance systems. Stakeholder engagement was shown to be a critical moderating factor, especially in influencing the successful adoption of AI policies and in reducing data breach vulnerabilities.