Global leaders convene to leverage broadband to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
Global leaders convene to leverage broadband to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
Broadband technology is critical to connecting the 3.8 billion people around the globe who still do not have access to the Internet—the world's “other half "
Connecting the “other half" of the world was a resounding call to action echoed by participants, including the Co-Chairs and Co-Vice Chairs of the Broadband Commission
Co-Chair of the Broadband Commission said: “We are preparing to mark a new milestone where half of the world's people are accessing the Internet. While this growth is not spread evenly across the world's regions, it is nonetheless an encouraging development. With more people online, we need to think through how everyone can access the digital content safely and fairly. To take full advantage of the latest technological innovations, we have to adapt rapidly, including more innovative approaches to policy and regulation. The best way to handle this is through close collaboration among the key stakeholders, from government, the private sector, and the research community "
He added : “Broadband is transforming all sectors and activities of our society. But many rural areas are still not connected to the Internet. Governments and regulators need to make universal connectivity a main priority for sustainable development "
Global leaders said : “We are reaching an important milestone with half of the population online. But advantages of internet access are not shared equally. Access to Internet is not enough in itself to improve livelihoods. We must put emphasis on digital skills and knowledge"