ITU launches the report Achieving universal and affordable Internet in LDCs

The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) launched the report Achieving universal and affordable Internet in least developed countries in partnership with the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS). The report highlights some encouraging progress being made by LDCs, such as the launch of third generation (3G) mobile telephony and data services in all 47 countries LDC countries as well as over 60 per cent coverage of the population by a 3G network. Four in five people in these countries have access to mobile networks, according to the report. The document also outlines some gaps which need to be overcome, including issues related to limited capacity in information and communication technology skills, and socio-economic issues such as education levels and gender equality.