A4AI publishes the 2021 edition of the Affordability Report

The Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) has published the 2021 Affordability Report. The report which is in its eighth edition takes stock of current connectivity trends, along with A4AI’s first Good Practices case studies from the COVID-19 pandemic to suggest a new future for Universal Service & Access Funds (USAFs). The report builds on new innovations in industry policy that focuses on close collaboration between political and economic actors to work harmoniously towards a common goal. This approach, according to the report, covers issues of ‘organizational competence and structure, financing and funding models, market regulation, and modes of participation and partnership across public, private, and community sectors.’ The report underscores the fact that serious policy and regulatory action is required else Universal access would only be a fantasy, and its attainment cannot be guaranteed.