Beyond universality: the meaningful connectivity imperative | IGF 2023

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Martin Shepherd

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Office of the United Nations Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology have collaborated to establish targets for achieving universal and meaningful connectivity. To promote and measure the progress towards this goal, the ITU, along with the European Commission, has launched a project. The project has three key work streams: advocacy, measurement and capacity building, and research. These work streams aim to bring the concept of universal and meaningful connectivity to policymakers, collect and disseminate data, and track progress. This initiative acknowledges the need for everyone to have safe, satisfying, enriching, and productive online experiences at an affordable cost.

Accurate data tracking is regarded as crucial in order to make informed decisions related to universal and meaningful connectivity. The ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau plays a vital role in maintaining an online dashboard to track progress. This data-driven approach helps policymakers and stakeholders understand the areas that require attention and improvement. Furthermore, enhancing the statistical capacity of countries is essential to effectively measure the concept of universal and meaningful connectivity. The ITU, through its Data Analytics Division, is involved in collecting and disseminating data to support this effort.

The ITU indicators play a significant role in this project. These indicators are not limited to technical aspects but also encompass the number of internet users, their online activities, their perceptions of the connections, and their skill sets. This quantitative approach provides comprehensive insights into the supply and demand side indicators of universal and meaningful connectivity. In addition to the ITU’s quantitative indicators, UNESCO takes a qualitative approach, including many qualitative indicators in their data collection. This combination ensures a holistic assessment of universal and meaningful connectivity, enabling individual country assessments.

While the efforts of ITU and UNESCO in data collection are complementary, they are not perfectly coordinated. Nevertheless, both organizations share a common objective and are members of the Partnership on Measuring IST for Development. This cooperative approach facilitates the exchange of information and promotes a collaborative environment for advancing the measurement of universal and meaningful connectivity.

One area that presents a challenge is the lack of good quality data on how communities use the internet. The ITU has yet to collect comprehensive data that accurately reflects the usage patterns and needs of different communities. This knowledge gap hinders the formulation of targeted policies and interventions to ensure equitable access and usage of the internet.

ITU’s focus on connectivity also means acknowledging the need to address safety, affordability, and the quality of internet services. The concept of meaningful connectivity extends beyond mere access; it encompasses the quality of the connection and affordable data plans. However, assessing the value of what people do on the internet remains a complex task, and the ITU intentionally maintains its focus on connectivity rather than evaluating specific services.

The organization led by Martin Shepherd takes a human-centred approach to internet usage. They emphasize the importance of considering the needs and experiences of individuals and communities, rather than solely focusing on businesses. Additionally, they are exploring alternative sources of data to enhance understanding and measurement.

While progress continues to be made, there are areas that require improvement. Martin Shepherd’s organization acknowledges the lack of good indicators for safety and security, as well as speed, and recognizes that the realities of rural regions may not be fully reflected in the data collected. However, the commitment to continuing the ITU project and the belief in its importance remain strong.

In conclusion, the ITU, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is working towards achieving universal and meaningful connectivity. This ambitious goal involves promoting and measuring connectivity, ensuring accurate data tracking, enhancing statistical capacity, and adopting a human-centred approach to internet usage. While challenges and areas for improvement exist, the commitment to this project and belief in its significance remain unwavering. By addressing these issues and leveraging partnerships, the goal of universal and meaningful connectivity can be realized, ensuring that everyone can benefit from safe, satisfying, and enriching online experiences at an affordable cost.

Anir Chowdhury

The analysis examines the state of internet usage and connectivity in Bangladesh, shedding light on both positive advancements and areas that require improvement. One significant point of progress is the increase in internet access and broadband connectivity across the country. It is noted that different cell phone providers have successfully covered 98% of the nation with 4G network, marking a considerable achievement. Moreover, 3,800 rural locations have been connected with fibre through collaboration with the private sector, while a service obligation fund has facilitated the connection of over 700 hard-to-reach locations, such as islands or hilly areas. Additionally, a new project was initiated recently with the aim of connecting around 110,000 institutions with fibre, further enhancing connectivity.

However, concerns are raised regarding the affordability and availability of devices, which still pose barriers to internet access for many individuals. Although the regulator has managed to maintain affordable internet pricing, the penetration rate of smartphones in the country is only 52%. This indicates that a significant portion of the population still lacks access to devices that can utilise internet connectivity. Despite the progress made in extending 4G network coverage, it is highlighted that only approximately half of the available network is being utilised, further underscoring the hindrances posed by device accessibility and affordability.

Another noteworthy point discussed in the analysis pertains to advancements in AI and large language models, which have the potential to redefine digital skills and literacy. Large language models in AI could compel people to adapt and acquire new digital literacy skills, while the inclusion of native languages in these models could simplify digital interaction for individuals with low literacy levels. This demonstrates the transformative role that AI and language models can play in shaping digital skills and accessibility.

Furthermore, there is a recognition of the need to design content and services that cater to specific groups in order to bridge the digital divide and reduce inequalities. The analysis highlights that services have not been tailored for the ultra-poor, persons with disabilities, women, or Cottage Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (CMSMEs). To address this issue, attention and effort must be devoted to designing services in a meaningful manner for these specific groups.

It is worth noting that policies and technologies are being implemented to improve connectivity and digital literacy in Bangladesh. Efforts are being made to address policy matters and deploy skills and technology for development. The importance of universal and meaningful connectivity is emphasised, particularly in relation to skills development and service design. Furthermore, an equality index is being worked on, indicating a focus on promoting gender equality and the inclusion of marginalised groups.

Looking towards the future, strategic insight is highlighted as a crucial aspect. The analysis mentions the prediction of humans, devices, and robots exchanging data, and stresses the importance of adequately preparing for the needs of the next five to ten years. This emphasises the need to future-proof connectivity and explore innovative approaches for data exchange.

In conclusion, the analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the internet usage and connectivity landscape in Bangladesh. It highlights the positive developments in increasing internet access and broadband connectivity, as well as the advancements in AI and large language models. However, concerns remain regarding device affordability and availability, the need for inclusivity in content and services, and the existence of a digital divide. Policy implementations and technological advancements aim to address these issues, with an emphasis on universal and meaningful connectivity. The analysis also acknowledges the importance of gender equality and strategic foresight for future-proofing connectivity. Overall, it appreciates the insightful discussion and the attention given to the various pertinent issues.

Cosmas Zavazava [Video 1]

During the analysis, the speakers emphasized the importance of enhancing internet connectivity and accessibility for those who are still offline. They highlighted that approximately 2.6 billion people are currently without internet access worldwide. The aim is to improve the internet experience for those who are already connected and make it accessible to those who are offline.

The speakers argued that this goal can be achieved through partnerships and collaborations. They mentioned a recent partnership between ITU and the European Union, which aims to adopt holistic approaches to enhance the statistical capacity of countries. This collaboration demonstrates the willingness to work together for enhancing internet connectivity.

Moreover, the discussion focused on the importance of universal and sustainable digital transformation. The speakers emphasized the need for initiatives, research, and technical assistance to enable this transformation. By implementing these measures, they believe that the benefits of digital technology can be harnessed in a way that ensures inclusivity and sustainability.

The analysis provided a positive sentiment towards efforts to enhance internet connectivity. The speakers recognized the challenges involved in reaching the vast number of people who currently lack internet access. However, they expressed optimism that through strategic partnerships, collaborations, and focused initiatives, progress can be made in bridging the digital divide.

In conclusion, the analysis underscored the significance of enhancing internet connectivity and accessibility for those who are offline. It emphasized the importance of partnerships and collaborations in achieving this goal, highlighting the recent partnership between ITU and the European Union. Additionally, the analysis highlighted the focus on universal and sustainable digital transformation through the implementation of various initiatives, research, and technical assistance.

Audience

The discussion centered around the concept of meaningful connectivity and highlighted the various aspects that need to be considered to ensure its effectiveness. One key point raised was that internet access is not limited to merely establishing a connection but should also take into account the availability of services and content in local languages. This emphasises the importance of tailoring internet offerings to meet the specific needs and preferences of local communities.

Furthermore, concerns were expressed regarding the adequacy of existing indicators used to measure meaningful connectivity. It was argued that these indicators may not fully capture the complexity and granularity of the issue, and that there is a need for more nuanced data measurements to identify and address disparities within countries. The quality and accuracy of the data used in measuring meaningful connectivity were also called into question, emphasizing the importance of improving the overall quality of the data used in such measurements. There is a need for more granularity in data measurements to fully understand and address the inequalities that exist.

In addition, the discussion highlighted the importance of adopting a human-centered approach in defining meaningful connectivity. This involves considering the needs and perspectives of communities and ensuring that the benefits of connectivity are equitable and accessible to all. Policy-making should be informed by a community-centric viewpoint to better understand what aspects of connectivity are meaningful and desired by different communities.

The session also addressed the issue of limited device availability, particularly in rural areas, which hinders the full utilization of network services. Strategies to address the affordability and accessibility of devices were emphasized to ensure that connectivity reaches its full potential.

In conclusion, the discussion underscored the need to go beyond simplistic measures of connectivity and focus on meaningful and inclusive approaches. It emphasized the importance of considering local languages, addressing disparities, improving data quality, and adopting a human-centered perspective. The session highlighted the importance of ensuring that connectivity is accessible to all, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status. Overall, there is a need for comprehensive strategies to ensure meaningful connectivity for all.

Alexandre Barbosa

In Brazil, there is a pressing need to address inequalities in connectivity at various levels. Firstly, there is a need to understand and tackle inequalities in terms of infrastructure, usage, and proficiency. The quality of connectivity in terms of high speed and advanced devices is crucial. However, barriers to digital usage, such as education level, socioeconomic income, age, and gender, have resulted in unequal access and usage. Proficient usage of the internet also leads to tangible outcomes such as content creation and the promotion of well-being.

Low-income households in Brazil still face limited internet access, with only 62% of such households having internet access compared to 98% of high-income households. Moreover, rural areas in Brazil also have a lower proportion of internet access compared to urban areas. This creates a significant digital divide, both geographically and socioeconomically. The South and Southeast regions of Brazil, which are wealthier, have higher proportions of fixed broadband households, while connectivity in the Amazon forest region and Northeast is mostly covered by radio or satellite. These disparities highlight the need to bridge the gap and ensure equal connectivity for all.

Despite these challenges, Brazil has embraced the concept of meaningful and universal connectivity. The country has experienced significant growth in internet usage over recent years, and there has been a rapid expansion of fiber optic connection. Policy makers in Brazil have been proactive in conducting surveys into internet usage since 2004, demonstrating a commitment to understanding and addressing connectivity issues.

In addition to access and infrastructure, digital skills play a pivotal role in promoting meaningful connectivity. Mobile-only users in Brazil display a lesser proportion of digital skills compared to computer and mobile phone users. Without digital skills, the full potential of the internet cannot be harnessed.

Furthermore, Brazil places importance on data protection and privacy. The country has implemented surveys to measure alignment with personal data protection laws, indicating a strong commitment to safeguarding individuals’ information.

To enhance connectivity and address inequalities effectively, it is crucial to have universal and meaningful connectivity indicators in a disaggregated format. National averages without disaggregation may not accurately capture the extent of inequalities within a country. Therefore, a more nuanced approach is needed to accurately assess the state of connectivity and identify areas that require improvement.

However, concerns about the quality and availability of data persist. It is important to ensure the reliability and accessibility of data, as well as to promote the production of high-quality data. This can be achieved through conducting primary data and using internationally recommended methodologies with probability samples that provide disaggregated data.

Despite efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote universal and meaningful connectivity, a human-centered approach is lacking in the design and implementation of connectivity initiatives in Brazil. By prioritising the needs and perspectives of individuals, a more inclusive and equitable approach to connectivity can be achieved.

The concept of Universal Media Connectivity (UMC) is of utmost importance in the current era of disinformation and lack of skills for content creation and critical use of the internet. Digital literacy and content creation skills are vital for individuals to navigate the digital landscape effectively and contribute meaningfully. Brazil, along with other countries, should produce data that can measure progress towards achieving the UMC concept, further emphasising the importance of tracking and monitoring connectivity goals.

In conclusion, Brazil faces significant inequalities in connectivity in terms of infrastructure, usage, and proficiency. While progress has been made, challenges remain, particularly in bridging the digital divide and promoting universal access. By prioritising digital skills, data protection, and a human-centered approach, Brazil can enhance connectivity and ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities to benefit from the digital era.

Peter Mariën

The European Union (EU) strongly supports the concept of universal meaningful connectivity, recognizing its importance in achieving sustainable development goals. The EU is collaborating with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to work on this concept. It believes that robust data collection is crucial for measuring progress and success in achieving objectives. This perspective aligns with the EU’s emphasis on data governance and the value it places on accurate and comprehensive data to drive effective decision-making.

In line with its commitment to promoting digital transformation, the EU advocates for a human-centric approach. It prioritises the individual and aims to bridge the digital divide by ensuring access to an open and free internet. The EU also emphasises the protection of privacy and security in the digital realm.

The EU has taken initiatives to enhance cybersecurity, a vital aspect of safe and secure connectivity. It has established a regional cybersecurity hub in the Dominican Republic and is actively involved in the BELA program, focusing on cybersecurity. The EU mainstreams cybersecurity in its programming, recognising its significance in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

A key argument put forth by the EU is the need to link infrastructure investment with investments in soft elements such as data governance, digital skills, and e-government. The EU’s collaborative efforts with Kenya in the digital package collaboration highlight the importance of this approach. Measures to improve last-mile digital connectivity, enhance vocational education, and implement data protection and procurement legislation have been implemented to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive digital ecosystem.

Data collection is deemed fundamental for effective planning and implementing strategies. However, collecting data at local levels can present challenges. The EU recognises both the importance of having data and the difficulties faced when collecting it in field and partner countries. This understanding underscores the EU’s commitment to leveraging partnerships for data collection and analysis to make informed decisions.

Despite the EU’s efforts, last-mile connectivity remains a challenge. It recognises that achieving universal connectivity necessitates the participation of both private and public operators, who must find it appealing to invest in infrastructure in remote areas.

The EU also acknowledges the need for foresight about future requirements. New technologies, skills, and systems may be necessary to address the evolving demands of the digital era. This highlights the EU’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and ensuring that its strategies and policies are adaptable to technological advancements.

In conclusion, the EU is strongly committed to various aspects of digital development. It supports the concept of universal meaningful connectivity, promotes a human-centric digital transformation, and takes initiatives to enhance cybersecurity. The EU emphasises the importance of investing in both hard infrastructure and soft elements like data governance and digital skills. It recognises the significance of data collection and the challenges associated with it at the local level. The EU acknowledges the struggle with last-mile connectivity and the need to anticipate and adapt to future requirements. Finally, the EU advocates for taking action and making things better through organisations dedicated to improving health, education, and combating climate change.

Video 2

Universal and meaningful connectivity is crucial for driving digital transformation and working towards the achievement of sustainable development goals. It allows individuals to access a wide range of essential services such as education, healthcare, government services, and job opportunities. Universal connectivity helps bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone can participate in the digital age.

To effectively track progress towards universal connectivity, measurement and data are essential. Proper data usage enables better decision-making by providing insights into past, current, and future positions. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology have established aspirational targets to guide efforts in this area. The ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau maintains an online dashboard, which transparently monitors and tracks progress towards universal connectivity.

Promoting universal connectivity requires a combined global effort. Recognizing this, the ITU and the European Commission have launched a global project that facilitates the expansion of connectivity. This project demonstrates the positive stance towards achieving universal connectivity and the commitment of various stakeholders to collaborate and make it a reality.

In conclusion, universal and meaningful connectivity are fundamental for digital transformation and the attainment of sustainable development goals. It provides individuals with access to essential services and promotes inclusivity in the digital era. By utilizing effective measurement techniques and tracking progress through data, we can move closer to achieving universal connectivity. The collaborative efforts of organizations like the ITU and the European Commission highlight the importance of global partnerships in accomplishing this noble goal.

Moderator

The session focused on the importance of universal and meaningful connectivity and the role of policymakers in achieving this goal. Its aim was to discuss the definition, reach, and impact of universal and meaningful connectivity, with the goal of exploring how it can improve the quality of life for all people. The concept of meaningful connectivity was emphasized throughout the session as a way to understand and address digital inequalities. The session also highlighted the need for robust measurement policies to ensure connectivity, with a suggestion to create a Universal and Meaningful Connectivity (UMC) Dashboard. Lithuania was commended for its progress in reaching UMC targets, particularly in ensuring broadband connectivity in rural areas. The importance of developing digital skills and promoting gender diversity in the tech industry was emphasized. Collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society was deemed essential for successful implementation of digital strategies. The digital divide in Brazil was discussed, along with issues of data accuracy and granularity in data consumption indicators. The challenges of last mile connectivity and the need for foresight in anticipating future needs were also explored. The session emphasized the significance of universal and meaningful connectivity in promoting sustainable development.

Agne Vaiciukeviciute

Lithuania is making significant efforts to achieve meaningful connectivity and digitization through a range of strategies. These strategies primarily focus on rural broadband connectivity, affordability, and the promotion of digital skills.

To ensure widespread access to the internet, Lithuania has invested in broadband deployment in rural areas through a non-profit organisation under the Ministry. By leaving the last mile of connectivity to the operators, the country has been able to keep costs affordable nationwide. In fact, Lithuania boasts the lowest prices for end users across Europe.

The commitment to digitisation is evident through the state digitalisation development program, which involves every ministry. This approach ensures that each ministry creates its plan to meet specific digital targets. The digitisation strategy is intended to be horizontal, cutting across all sectors, thereby promoting comprehensive digitisation efforts.

Public libraries play a crucial role in imparting digital education and skills, particularly through their network of 1200 public internet access points across urban and rural areas. Additionally, various NGO initiatives, such as Safer Internet Week, All Digital Week, and the Women Go Tech programme, contribute to promoting digital education and skills. These initiatives aim to enhance digital literacy and encourage women to enter the tech and IT world.

To achieve meaningful connectivity and digitisation, collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is deemed necessary. This collaborative approach enables the implementation of digital strategies and maximises their reach to different segments of society. It ensures that a wide range of perspectives and expertise is considered in the planning and execution of these strategies.

Municipalities and regional levels are recognised as crucial players in the digitisation process. They are the closest organisations to the people and hold the potential to significantly affect the digitisation process within their cities. In Lithuania, the majority of initiatives are taken by the municipalities, which highlights their importance in driving digitisation efforts.

Recognising the importance of rural areas, Lithuania aims to extend digital strategies beyond dense cities. It recognises that there is a need to attract and implement initiatives in these areas as well, to ensure that all citizens can benefit from digitisation.

Lithuania ranks highly in digitalisation for public services, as evidenced by its 8th place worldwide ranking according to the World Bank’s digitalisation for the public service index. The country utilises new technologies to enhance accessibility to services, and the majority of services can now be accessed through digital service approaches. However, initiatives like GovTech are also created to address the gap for services that cannot be reached yet through the internet.

The importance of local content and internet accessibility to digital services is emphasised in Lithuania. The country acknowledges that digital solutions should be customised to fit the local environment, rather than being copied from elsewhere. They actively involve civil society, the public sector, and the private sector in creating digital solutions. The successful GovTech project in 2019 serves as an example of this collaborative effort, which resulted in tailored solutions that fit the Lithuanian context.

Collaboration and coordination within the government and stakeholders are crucial aspects of achieving meaningful connectivity and digitisation. By working together, these entities can align their efforts, share resources, and ensure a cohesive approach towards achieving digital goals.

Furthermore, the importance of data quality is emphasised for insightful decision-making and progress measurement. Accurate and reliable data are essential in shaping effective digital strategies and tracking progress towards digital goals.

Lastly, considering the fast-paced nature of technological advancements, adaptability and flexibility are recognised as key attributes. It is important to be able to adapt and adjust measures and strategies in response to rapid changes in the digital landscape.

In conclusion, Lithuania’s multifaceted approach to achieving meaningful connectivity and digitisation encompasses strategies focused on rural broadband connectivity, affordability, and digital skills. Through collaboration among the government, private sector, and civil society, as well as the involvement of municipalities and regional levels, Lithuania strives to ensure comprehensive digitisation efforts. The emphasis on local content, data quality, and adaptability further enhances the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Speakers