Bridging the Digital Divide: Achieving Universal and Meaningful Connectivity (ITU)

Arguments

Brazil has reached almost universal connectivity with more than 84% of the population online.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has achieved a significant percentage of internet users, but meaningful use remains a challenge.

Disparities exist in Brazil’s internet usage based on socioeconomic status, location, device availability, and digital skills.

Supporting facts:

• In Brazil, high-income households have virtually universal connectivity, whereas low-income households still face challenges in access. Majority of users are mobile only users, particularly in low-income households.

Data and indicators are crucial in revealing and addressing digital inequalities.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has been utilizing a range of indicators to track and monitor meaningful connectivity and digital inequalities, with data revealing significant disparities in access and use. Only 22% of internet users in Brazil have meaningful connectivity.

Meaningful connectivity is more important than just bridging the digital divide

Supporting facts:

• Both regulator and Minister of Communication in Brazil embrace the idea of meaningful connectivity.

• Looking at the conditions and context of internet usage is important in the context of digital transformation and digital economy

Quality and context of connectivity is important beyond achieving 100% connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Even if 100% population has connectivity, the type of connectivity and use is important

• Information on type of use and context can influence technology investment and capacity building decisions

Brazil does not have a specific public policy for improvement of meaningful connectivity and equality for the older population

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has different ministries such as the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education, that are working on ICT-related initiatives in their areas

• There are civil society organizations in Brazil that have taken up the responsibility of engaging the older population in internet use

Small internet service providers (ISPs) are key to promoting inclusion and connectivity

Supporting facts:

• In Brazil, small enterprises are going into areas where big telecoms are not interested in offering services

• The growth of internet access in Brazil is linked to very small ISPs providing connectivity

Report

Brazil has achieved significant progress towards universal connectivity, with over 84% of the population online. However, there are challenges in ensuring meaningful use of the internet. Disparities in access exist based on socioeconomic factors, location, device availability, and digital skills. While high-income households have almost universal connectivity, low-income households face difficulties accessing the internet.

The majority of internet users in Brazil rely on mobile-only access, particularly in low-income households. It is crucial to utilise data and indicators to address digital inequalities, as only 22% of internet users in Brazil have meaningful connectivity. Alexandre, an advocate for data-driven policy-making, emphasises the importance of quality and disaggregated data in identifying and addressing inequalities.

The regulator and the Minister of Communication in Brazil have shown support for meaningful connectivity and the incorporation of data into policy. The idea of meaningful connectivity being more important than just bridging the digital divide is supported, with an understanding of the contextual factors of internet usage.

Brazil currently lacks a specific public policy targeting meaningful connectivity and equality for the older population. However, various ministries and civil society organisations are working to engage the older population in internet use. Promoting meaningful connectivity requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, private sector, academia, and civil society.

The role of small internet service providers (ISPs) in promoting inclusion and connectivity is recognised. These small ISPs have expanded their services into areas not covered by larger telecom operators, contributing to the growth of internet access in Brazil. Alexandre Barbosa argues for reducing entry barriers for small ISPs to enhance internet accessibility.

In summary, Brazil has made significant progress in achieving connectivity, but meaningful use of the internet remains a challenge. Disparities in access exist based on socioeconomic factors, location, device availability, and digital skills. Data and indicators are crucial in addressing these inequalities.

Collaboration among stakeholders is required to promote meaningful connectivity, and reducing entry barriers for small ISPs can enhance internet accessibility in Brazil.

Arguments

Introducing new technology like 5G can increase the digital divide, especially among developing and less developed countries

Concern about significant need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age group in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• Older age groups have lower meaningful connectivity in Brazil as shown in the presentation

ICT is a cross-cutting enabler in different areas in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• ICT is seen as an enabler in fields like education, health, public safety in Brazil

• Specific plans are being developed for capacity-building among students, teachers, and healthcare professionals through the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education

Needs for digital inclusion among older population in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• No specific public policy in place, but civil society programs are being implemented to engage older population in using the internet

• The older population faces barriers in making meaningful use of the internet

Enforcing meaningful connectivity in small-scale ISPs

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has 11,000 internet service providers companies working all over the territory.

• The majority of these are small business, micro enterprise with up to nine persons employed.

Report

The analysis of technology and connectivity in Brazil identifies several key points. One concern raised is the potential increase in the digital divide with the introduction of new technology, such as 5G. This issue is particularly relevant for developing countries, including Brazil.

It is argued that without proper measures in place, the introduction of new technology can further exacerbate existing inequalities. The need for a balance between development and controlling the digital divide is emphasized as crucial when introducing new technologies in developing and less-developed countries.

Another significant issue highlighted is the need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age groups in Brazil. The analysis reveals that older age groups have lower rates of meaningful connectivity in the country, which raises concerns about the inclusion and access to technology for this demographic.

This issue is deemed essential and requires attention both domestically and internationally. Strategies to improve equality and digital connectivity for older age groups are recommended. The analysis also points out that ICT is seen as a cross-cutting enabler in various areas in Brazil, such as education, health, and public safety.

It is viewed as a tool that can contribute to achieving goals related to good health and well-being, as well as quality education. To realize the potential of ICT, specific plans for capacity-building among students, teachers, and healthcare professionals are being developed through the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education.

Furthermore, the need for digital inclusion among the older population in Brazil is acknowledged. Although no specific public policy is in place, civil society programs are being implemented to engage the older population in using the internet. However, barriers to making meaningful use of the internet are identified for this demographic, indicating the need for further initiatives and support.

The analysis argues for a multi-stakeholder approach in policy-making to effectively address these issues. It is suggested that policies require actions from different stakeholders, including the private sector, academia, and civil society. Such an approach can lead to more comprehensive and inclusive policies.

Another noteworthy observation is the presence of a large number of internet service providers (ISPs) in Brazil, with approximately 11,000 companies operating throughout the country. However, the majority of these ISPs are small businesses or micro enterprises, employing a limited number of individuals.

Therefore, ensuring meaningful connectivity in small-scale ISPs becomes a relevant focus area. A question is raised regarding the role of telecom operators in enforcing quality connection and meaningful connectivity. The analysis suggests that strategies for quality connection enforcement should be examined, with a focus on the role of telecom operators in this regard.

In conclusion, the analysis of technology and connectivity in Brazil highlights concerns about the potential increase in the digital divide, particularly with the introduction of new technology. There is a significant need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age groups.

ICT is viewed as a crucial enabler across various sectors, while digital inclusion and a multi-stakeholder approach in policy-making are advocated for. Attention is also drawn to the role of small-scale ISPs and the responsibilities of telecom operators in ensuring quality connection enforcement.

Arguments

Importance of universal and meaningful connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Digital economy is dependent on digital connectivity

• Digital connectivity is a necessity for global and sectoral digital transformation

• Every human being should have a choice to be online and be safe when online

• 119 out of 169 sustainable development goals are driven directly by ICTs

Digital Transformation’s impact on economic development

Supporting facts:

• Testimonial of a young woman from Burundi whose business thrived after taking it online

• Digital economy can provide global and sectoral transformation

• Digital economy is real, powerful and expected to grow rapidly

Report

The importance of universal and meaningful connectivity in the digital economy is emphasised in the analysis. It is argued that digital connectivity plays a vital role in the functioning of the digital economy. In fact, the digital economy is heavily dependent on digital connectivity.

For the digital economy to thrive, it is crucial to ensure that every individual has the choice to access the internet and can do so safely. This highlights the significance of providing universal access to the internet. Furthermore, it is noted that ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) directly drive a significant number of sustainable development goals.

In fact, out of the 169 sustainable development goals, 119 are driven directly by ICTs. This underscores the transformative potential of digital connectivity in achieving various development goals, particularly in areas such as industry, innovation, and infrastructure, as well as quality education.

However, the analysis also raises concerns about the digital divide. Despite the advancements in technology, 2.6 billion people still remain offline. This digital divide is further exacerbated by various divides based on factors such as gender, location, age, and demographic. These divides create barriers to access and hinder the ability of certain populations to benefit from digital connectivity.

Lack of digital skills and limited coverage in remote areas are identified as significant reasons contributing to the digital divide. The need for enhanced security and awareness in the digital realm is another noteworthy point raised in the analysis. It is highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, a majority of young women and women in general faced online harassment.

This underscores the importance of addressing issues related to cybersecurity and online abuse. Additionally, the analysis notes that many individuals are unaware of the potential benefits the internet can bring to their lives, and affordability remains a challenge for some.

Unstable and unreliable connectivity further hampers the ability of individuals to fully utilize the internet for their needs. On a positive note, a testimonial is presented in the analysis, illustrating the impact of digital transformation on economic development. The case of a young woman from Burundi is highlighted, who experienced the growth of her business after taking it online.

This serves as evidence for the potential of the digital economy to drive global and sectoral transformation. The analysis acknowledges the real and powerful nature of the digital economy, which is expected to grow rapidly in the future. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the importance of universal and meaningful connectivity in the digital economy.

It emphasizes the need to ensure that every individual has the choice to access the internet and can do so safely. The analysis also raises concerns about the digital divide, highlighting various divides based on factors such as gender, location, age, and demographic.

Furthermore, the need for enhanced security and awareness in the digital realm is underscored. Overall, the analysis presents a balanced view of the potential benefits and challenges associated with digital connectivity and transformation, contributing to a better understanding of the subject.

Arguments

Indonesia has ‘Digital Indonesia Vision 2045’ for connecting the country

Supporting facts:

• Indonesia aims to be one of the developed countries by 2045

• The Vision consists of four pillars: digital government, digital economy, digital society, and digital infrastructure, and places an emphasis on fiber optic cables, satellite technology, and wireless network

• They have spent $30 billion on fibre optic cable networks that stretch 26,000 kilometers across Indonesia, providing high-speed connectivity to 440 regions

• They launched a satellite, Satria 1, in June to provide connectivity, especially in the field of public infrastructure, education, and health facilities

Aims for meaningful digital connectivity that is inclusive and empowering

Supporting facts:

• They provide trainings in three levels of digital literacy for the Indonesian people

• They ensure availability of access to digital space for all groups including children

• They are working towards providing a safe digital space for children

• They have plans to establish fair and transparent data governance to safeguard people from the misuse or abuse of digital technologies

For Indonesia, 5G technology is mainly being used for industries and ‘Internet of Things’, while 4G continues to be the primary connectivity for regular connectivity needs such as students and small-medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Supporting facts:

• 5G is used mainly for industrial purposes

• Connectivity issues are distributed all over Indonesia, with 4G serving as the main focus.

Report

Indonesia aims to achieve developed nation status by 2045 through its “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative. This comprehensive plan focuses on four pillars: digital government, digital economy, digital society, and digital infrastructure. With a budget of $30 billion, Indonesia has invested in a 26,000-kilometer fiber optic cable network, delivering high-speed connectivity to 440 regions.

Additionally, the launch of the Satria 1 satellite in June will further enhance connectivity, particularly in public infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative has a positive sentiment as it prioritizes inclusivity and empowerment. Promoting digital literacy and skills development, Indonesia provides training in three levels of digital literacy and ensures equal access to digital spaces for all, including children.

The country also aims to establish fair and transparent data governance to safeguard individuals from digital technology misuse. Acknowledging the importance of connectivity skills and literacy, Indonesia strives to offer equitable, affordable, safe, and secure access to digital resources alongside the necessary skills.

While 4G remains the primary focus for regular connectivity needs like students and small-medium enterprises (SMEs), Indonesia recognizes the potential of 5G technology for industrial purposes and the Internet of Things. While fixed broadband is not a primary focus, Indonesia is committed to expanding 4G connectivity nationwide to ensure widespread and reliable connectivity.

By doing so, Indonesia can cater to the connectivity requirements of the general population while utilizing 5G technology for specific industrial applications. In conclusion, Indonesia’s “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative prioritizes connecting the country and achieving developed nation status by 2045. Through investments in digital infrastructure, including fiber optic cables and satellite technology, Indonesia demonstrates its commitment to improving connectivity.

The initiative also emphasizes digital literacy, skills development, and fair data governance in order to create an inclusive and empowering digital environment. By balancing 4G connectivity for regular users with the potential of 5G technology, Indonesia aims to meet immediate connectivity needs while harnessing the opportunities of emerging technologies.

Arguments

Universal and meaningful connectivity is imperative for digital transformation and meeting sustainable development goals

Supporting facts:

• Universal and meaningful connectivity enables access to educational resources, healthcare, government services and job opportunities

• Collaboration with the United Nations Office of the Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology and the European Commission

Data is crucial for monitoring and making better decisions towards achieving universal and meaningful connectivity

Supporting facts:

• International Telecommunication Union and the Office of the United Nations Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology established aspirational targets for universal and meaningful connectivity

• There is a measurement challenge to assess the progress

• Online dashboard to track progress

Report

Universal and meaningful connectivity is imperative for achieving digital transformation and meeting sustainable development goals. It allows individuals to access educational resources, healthcare, government services, and employment opportunities. Collaboration is taking place between the United Nations Office of the Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology and the European Commission to address this crucial issue.

In order to support the goal of universal and meaningful connectivity, data plays a crucial role. It is essential for monitoring progress and making informed decisions towards achieving connectivity targets. The International Telecommunication Union and the Envoy on Technology have established aspirational targets and implemented an online dashboard to track progress.

However, accurately measuring progress remains a challenge due to the complexity of the task. Advocacy is deemed necessary alongside measurement and capacity building efforts to ensure universal and meaningful connectivity. The project encompasses three main work streams: advocacy, measurement, and capacity building.

The expected outcomes of this initiative include increasing awareness, improving data dissemination, building statistical capacity, and developing better policies. Overall, universal and meaningful connectivity has the potential to facilitate digital transformation and effectively address sustainable development goals. Collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and advocacy are key components in achieving this important objective.

Arguments

South Africa has a history of economic disparity. Post 1994, the Government had to bring the majority of the population to participate in the broader and mainstream economic activities

Supporting facts:

• Underdevelopment in tier three towns, where majority of the population still resides

Reliable electricity supply is crucial for effective internet connectivity.

Supporting facts:

• Unavailability and unreliable electricity supply has impacted negatively on consumers, especially students dependent on e-learning.

• Service providers need to put up backup equipment in their base stations to maintain network during electricity outages.

Small and medium internet service providers are driving the expansion of fiber networks in underdeveloped regions in South Africa

Supporting facts:

• The layout of fiber networks infrastructure in the underdeveloped and tier two areas has been driven by the small and medium internet service providers

• These providers are also moving into developed areas at competitive prices which has driven big companies to reduce their prices

Small enterprises have the potential to grow into medium-sized enterprises

Supporting facts:

• Small companies start by focusing on a particular region and then expand into districts and metropolitan areas becoming visible across the country

• As these small enterprises grow into bigger ones, they open up opportunities for new ones to fill the gap they leave behind in the rural areas

Report

South Africa has a longstanding issue with economic inequality, and since 1994, the government has been making efforts to bring the majority of the population into mainstream economic activities. This has become a crucial goal for the country, given that underdevelopment is still prevalent in tier three towns where the majority of the population resides.

The South African government recognizes the key role it plays in promoting connectivity and economic parity. To achieve this, they have implemented various initiatives. One of these is the SA Connect program, which aims to ensure that every citizen has access to quality connectivity.

Additionally, they have introduced the Broadband Access Fund, which offers subsidized internet services in outlying and rural areas. Furthermore, the government provides subsidies to the private sector to encourage them to provide network infrastructure in underdeveloped areas. These efforts are seen as positive steps towards bridging the connectivity gap in the country and promoting economic equality.

Competition in the telecommunications sector is also seen as desirable to reduce the costs of internet access. Currently, high data costs are driven by a limited number of dominant telecommunications companies, resulting in a polystic market. However, there has been progress in this regard.

The release of Spectrum to the private sector in 2022 has led to a decrease in data costs. This development is seen as positive, as it indicates that increased competition can indeed lead to more affordable internet access for all South Africans.

However, it is important to note that the availability and reliability of electricity supply have a significant impact on internet connectivity. Unavailability and unreliable electricity supply negatively affect consumers, especially students who heavily rely on e-learning. Service providers have to implement backup equipment in their base stations to maintain network connectivity during electricity outages.

Therefore, it is crucial to have reliable electricity supply to ensure effective internet connectivity. In terms of infrastructure development, small and medium internet service providers are driving the expansion of fiber networks in underdeveloped regions. These providers are also moving into developed areas and offering competitive prices, which has compelled larger companies to reduce their prices.

This expansion of fiber networks is positive, as it brings improved connectivity to previously underserved areas, contributing to economic growth and development. Furthermore, the growth of small enterprises in the telecommunications sector can have a positive impact. These enterprises often start by focusing on a specific region and then expand into districts and metropolitan areas, becoming more visible across the country.

As they grow into medium-sized enterprises, they create opportunities for new enterprises to fill the gap they leave behind in rural areas. This trend not only promotes economic growth but also contributes to the development of a diverse and competitive market.

In conclusion, the South African government’s efforts to promote connectivity and economic parity are commendable. Initiatives such as the SA Connect program, subsidies for network infrastructure in underdeveloped areas, and increasing competition in the telecommunications sector are all steps in the right direction.

However, challenges related to electricity supply and the high costs of data still need to be addressed to ensure effective internet connectivity and economic equality for all. The growth of small and medium enterprises in the telecommunications sector presents an opportunity for further development and competition, fostering economic growth and inclusion.

Overall, there is room for all internet service providers in the market, and their growth from regional dominance to national visibility encourages healthy competition.

Arguments

Connectivity is essential for the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• There is no digital economy without connectivity.

The session will include practitioners sharing their experiences.

Supporting facts:

• In this session, we will hear from practitioners committed to advancing the digital agenda and connectivity in their respective roles.

Thierry Geiger highlights the challenges faced by Indonesia in ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity due to its geographical diversity and large population.

Supporting facts:

• Indonesia has over 270 million people

• Over 17,000 islands compose Indonesia, 6,000 of which are inhabited

• Two-thirds of the adult population in Indonesia is already connected

Thierry Geiger emphasizes the critical enablers of connectivity around skills, and safety and security.

Supporting facts:

• Ishwan describes the Digital Indonesia Vision 2045, which includes efforts to improve digital governance, extend digital economy, promote digital literacy and competence among the society, and develop digital infrastructure.

• Indonesia is investing heavily in fiber optic cables, satellite technology and wireless network to facilitate connectivity across the country, including remote and rural areas.

• Literacy and skill development programs have been initiated to make sure citizens can effectively use and benefit from digital connectivity.

Thierry Geiger supports the importance and need for data in digital infrastructure policy implements and interventions

Supporting facts:

• The level of detail achievable through data measurements makes a strong case for investing in data infrastructure

• With rich data sets, policy and efficiency can be improved in interventions

• Geiger believes average numbers at country level do conceal disparities and urges for disaggregated data

Importance of quality connectivity and meaningful access to digital services

Supporting facts:

• Mentioned that the quality of connectivity matters and just connecting everyone is no longer enough

• Mentioned the shift in global mindset towards quality of connectivity

Progress in providing meaningful connectivity globally

Supporting facts:

• Acknowledges traction on the concept of meaningful connectivity

• Heard about solutions, financing, and interventions is improving things

Report

During the session, multiple speakers reiterated the importance of connectivity for the digital economy. It was unanimously agreed that without connectivity, there can be no digital economy. The significance of achieving universal meaningful connectivity was highlighted, with a specific focus on the challenges faced by Indonesia due to its geographical diversity and large population.

Practitioners committed to advancing the digital agenda and connectivity in their respective roles shared their experiences, adding a positive aspect to the session. Dr. Cosmas Lokissensavasava, the Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, delivered the opening remarks. Efforts to improve connectivity and promote digital literacy in Indonesia were discussed, including the Digital Indonesia Vision 2045 and investments in digital infrastructure.

The critical enablers of connectivity, such as skills and safety and security, were emphasized by Thierry Geiger. The potential negatives of an over-connected society, such as data misuse or abuse and cyber security concerns, were acknowledged. The Indonesian government is actively addressing these issues through a fair and transparent data governance structure and investments in cyber security measures.

The importance of data in digital infrastructure policy implementation and interventions was highlighted, along with the need for disaggregated data to accurately assess progress in connectivity. The focus on quality connectivity, rather than only connecting everyone, was emphasized. The session concluded by acknowledging the progress made in providing meaningful connectivity globally and the emerging solutions, financing, and interventions.

Ongoing efforts and collaboration among stakeholders are necessary to ensure universal and meaningful connectivity for all.

Arguments

The EU’s Global Gateway to support investments in different kinds of infrastructures, including digital infrastructure.

Supporting facts:

• Global Gateway is expected to mobilize up to 300 billion euros in investments between 2021 and 2027.

• It covers both investments in hard connectivity, such as infrastructure, data centers, but also the enabling environment, the soft connectivity, which means investments into e-government, digital entrepreneurship, digital skills, the connection of schools, academia, data governance.

The Global Gateway is designed for the needs of local people and economies, prioritizing undeserved regions.

Supporting facts:

• The Global Gateway is designed for local people, for the local economies and prioritizes undeserved regions.

• Countries should always keep ownership of it, and it should really be based on what they need and they feel important.

Report

The EU’s Global Gateway is a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting investment in various types of infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on digital infrastructure. It seeks to mobilise approximately 300 billion euros in investments between 2021 and 2027. These investments will encompass not only physical aspects like infrastructure and data centres but also the enabling environment, known as soft connectivity.

Soft connectivity encompasses investments in e-government, digital entrepreneurship, digital skills, and the connection of schools, academia, and data governance. This approach ensures a holistic development of both physical and digital infrastructure, which is crucial for sustainable economic growth. An important aspect of the Global Gateway is its commitment to addressing regional disparities and catering to the needs of underserved regions.

The initiative is designed to meet the specific requirements of local communities and economies. It emphasizes that countries should retain ownership of their infrastructure projects to ensure that they align with their priorities and aspirations. The Global Gateway also recognizes the significance of international cooperation in enhancing connectivity and promoting development.

It aims to strengthen partnerships between the EU, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa through the establishment of digital alliances and the implementation of strategic projects. For instance, the EU-Latin American-Caribbean digital alliance builds upon existing cooperation between Europe and Latin America, notably through the Bella cable, a 6,000-kilometer-long submarine fiber-optic cable.

The Bella cable project aims to connect academic research centres in Latin America, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Similarly, the Euro-Africa Gateway cable project aims to enhance digital sovereignty, infrastructure, and cybersecurity standards between the EU and Africa along the Atlantic coast.

The cable will facilitate the exchange of information, encourage collaboration, and contribute to the digital development of both continents. To conclude, the EU’s Global Gateway is an ambitious initiative focused on supporting investment in different infrastructure domains, particularly in digital infrastructure.

It aims to mobilise substantial funding, prioritize underserved regions, and foster international cooperation. Through digital alliances and strategic projects like the Bella cable and the Euro-Africa Gateway cable, the Global Gateway aims to enhance connectivity and promote development while ensuring digital sovereignty and cybersecurity.