The Public Sector AI Adoption Index 2026, published by Public First (a policy, research, opinion and strategy consultancy) for the Center for Data Innovation with sponsorship from Google, shows that more than 70% of public servants have adopted artificial intelligence in their daily work. Only 18% believe their governments are currently using the technology very effectively.
The report indicates a rapid acceleration in AI uptake and highlights a significant disparity in confidence based on organizational support. In environments with clear leadership backing and guidance, 91% of workers feel confident using AI. Conversely, 70% of public servants who use AI in organizations with limited guidance are doing so in “shadow,” using tools without official employer knowledge.
The index identifies Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and India as “Advanced Adopters” leading the sector, while European nations like France and Germany are categorized as “Cautious Adopters” due to higher risk aversion and limited hands-on usage.
It is based on a survey of 3,335 public servants across 10 major economies, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, Brazil, South Africa, India, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia.
The report concludes that effective AI adoption requires moving beyond policy documents to provide public servants with practical resources, training, and visible leadership permission.
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