The Federated States of Micronesia National ICT and Telecommunications Policy
September 2012
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) National ICT and Telecommunications Policy, established in September 2012, provides a structured and inclusive framework designed to ensure the nation’s progress in information and communication technology. This policy, built on consultations with FSM leaders, stakeholders, and international entities, emphasises equitable access, sustainable development, and transparent governance using ICT. The FSM government recognises ICT as critical to enhancing the country’s social and economic landscape and ensuring its active participation in the global information society.
The policy’s vision centers on creating a ‘Secure, Efficient, and Affordable ICT to achieve equitable communication for the People of FSM.’ It aspires to empower citizens, support democratic values, and promote both social equity and sustainable economic growth. Under this vision, ICT expansion aims to enable responsive governance, skilled workforce development, cost-effective service delivery, and better access to education, health, and emergency services. Ultimately, it seeks to build a knowledge-based society that supports a brighter future for all FSM citizens.
To realise this vision, the policy outlines five primary goals:
- Achieve accessible and affordable communications: The government is committed to providing all citizens with secure, affordable ICT services. This involves building ICT infrastructure in underserved areas and making ICT resources available in public spaces, such as schools and health centers, to maximise accessibility.
- Strengthen ICT human resources: Developing a skilled ICT workforce is critical to sustaining and advancing FSM’s ICT capabilities. This goal prioritises ICT education at all levels—from government leaders to citizens—through initiatives like vocational training and e-learning opportunities, making knowledge acquisition more accessible.
- Promote economic growth and sustainable development: The government leverages ICT to support economic productivity, especially for small and medium enterprises, to foster growth in sectors like tourism, agriculture, and transportation. For example, ICT enables better access to markets, efficient data collection for businesses, and online platforms for tourism promotion.
- Enhance governance through ICT: ICT implementation strengthens government transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery. For instance, developing an e-Government system allows FSM citizens easier access to public information and services while fostering more inclusive political participation.
- Create a supportive ICT environment through policy reform: Establishing a strong legal and regulatory framework is crucial for sustainable ICT growth. The FSM government emphasises market liberalisation and the formation of an independent regulatory authority, aiming to make ICT more affordable and equitable, particularly in rural areas.
Guiding these goals are several core principles, including visionary leadership and a coordinated, holistic approach to ICT implementation. Emphasis is placed on bridging the digital divide by ensuring affordable and accessible ICT for all FSM citizens. This commitment to equitable access aims to support not only economic opportunities but also education, health, and social connections across FSM communities. The policy advocates for proven, cost-effective technologies suitable for local contexts, following a strategic approach of “think big, start small, replicate fast.”
Environmentally sustainable ICT practices also feature prominently, with green ICT initiatives aimed at using energy-efficient equipment and establishing protocols for safe disposal of obsolete devices. These efforts are in line with the government’s dedication to preserving FSM’s natural environment while also promoting disaster preparedness and climate change awareness through ICT.
Expected outcomes from implementing this policy include the majority of FSM’s population having access to affordable ICT services, supported by non-discriminatory policies. Additional anticipated benefits include the creation of e-commerce platforms to boost local businesses, a well-trained ICT workforce, and an e-Government framework that increases transparency in governance. Furthermore, the policy seeks to introduce robust legal protections for citizens, addressing cybercrime, data privacy, and child safety in digital spaces.