Approaches Towards Meaningful Connectivity in the Global South

Event desciption

WSIS Action Line C1 calls on the government and relevant stakeholders to promote ICTs for development. However, the extent of digital exclusion in the Global South and access to digital technologies is a major concern, often due to poor digital infrastructure and lack of transparency. This divide exacerbates inequalities in accessing information and services, hindering efforts to create an inclusive information society. Globally it is estimated that at least 2,6 billion people are unconnected, with marginalised communities often lacking connectivity and digital skills. The session spotlights approaches to achieving meaningful connectivity in the Global South and provides case studies on the implementation of the universal service fund in 27 countries in Africa, based on findings from Paradigm Initiative’s 2024 Londa report. PIN’s Londa report flags gaps and challenges that are barriers to the realisation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Global Digital Compact and the African Digital Compact (ADC). The discussion will provide a pathway for the realisation of WSIS Action line C1 and spotlight the role of governments in supporting approaches to achieving meaningful connectivity.