The Postal Network: A Vehicle of Digital Inclusion | IGF 2023 Open Forum #160

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Rodney Taylor

The analysis examines a series of discussions on various aspects of the postal sector and its collaboration with the digital realm. The speakers highlight several key points that shed light on the important role played by the postal sector in the digital age.

One of the main points discussed is the potential revenue opportunities that arise from the collaboration between the digital and postal sectors. The success of the Barbados Postal Service in earning significant revenue by embracing digital transformation exemplifies this point. By turning digital, the postal service was able to offer delivery services at a nominal cost, which proved to be more desirable for many people compared to the expenses of public transportation or driving.

Another significant aspect highlighted in the analysis is the importance of partnerships between postal services and governments, particularly the Ministries of Digital Transformation. This collaboration can contribute to national transformation initiatives, as demonstrated by the successful joint effort in Barbados between the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Ministry of Home Affairs to deliver essential credentials such as passports and driver’s licenses.

The speakers also emphasize the role of the postal sector in promoting digital inclusion, particularly in underserved regions. Post offices serve as accessible points of interaction with government services for individuals who may lack digital skills. This highlights the crucial role played by the postal sector in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all citizens have access to important online services.

Additionally, the analysis points out the significance of initiatives that focus on digitising indigenous artifacts and tracing ancestry. Countries in the Caribbean, such as Dominica, Trinidad, and Jamaica, house indigenous populations, and UNESCO has launched a program to digitally preserve their cultural heritage. This demonstrates the potential for leveraging the postal sector to protect and promote indigenous cultures.

The analysis also highlights the need for policymakers to better understand the connection between the digital and postal sectors. While some policymakers may not fully grasp the importance of combining online services with offline, it is essential for successful implementation and ensuring that all individuals benefit from technological advancements.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the significant role of the postal sector in the digital era. It highlights the potential for revenue generation through collaboration with the digital sector, the importance of partnerships with governments, the role of the postal sector in promoting digital inclusion, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The analysis also underscores the need for policymakers to be fully aware of the importance of combining online and offline services to ensure comprehensive and inclusive digital advancements.

Audience

The Caribbean Network Operators group has expressed their admiration for Tracy’s initiatives and their desire to collaborate with her to support and accelerate the deployment of these initiatives at both the national and regional levels. This demonstrates a positive sentiment towards Tracy’s work and highlights the potential for collaboration between organizations to achieve common goals in the Caribbean region.

Conversely, Christine Mujimba’s perspective raises concerns about the challenges faced by postal services in leveraging opportunities offered by digitisation and competition. She highlights the hindrances that the postal services in Uganda face and emphasises the need to reposition the traditional postal service system to overcome these hurdles.

Mujimba’s viewpoint suggests a negative sentiment towards the current state of affairs in the postal services sector. She questions the readiness of national post operators to take advantage of digitisation and competition and stresses the importance of policy factors that enable postal networks to leverage these opportunities. This implies that strategic and regulatory changes are needed to ensure the future viability and success of the postal services industry in the face of evolving market dynamics.

Another important observation is the urgency emphasized in repositioning the traditional postal service system. Increased competition from courier companies and new players like Uber has disrupted the traditional business model of postal services. As a result, there has been a trend of post offices closing down, and sustainability has become a pressing issue. This further underscores the need for proactive measures to adapt to the changing landscape and strike a balance between universal postal service obligations and market competition.

Overall, this summary highlights the contrasting sentiments and perspectives presented in the discussions. While the Caribbean Network Operators group shows a positive sentiment and willingness to collaborate, Christine Mujimba’s concerns shed light on the challenges faced by the postal services sector and emphasize the need for policy changes and urgent action. These insights provide a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and the potential paths forward for the concerned parties involved.

Tracey Hackshaw

The discussions revolved around various topics such as the .post initiative, digital inclusion, and the role of post offices in facilitating digital transformation. Tracey Hackshaw, who is part of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), is responsible for the .post initiative. The .post initiative aims to provide a secure and trusted top-level domain for the postal sector.

A key point of emphasis was the need for secure and trusted top-level domains in the postal sector. This highlights the importance of maintaining a secure environment for delivering services in the digital age. The UPU cybersecurity policy framework was discussed as an example of such a secure environment. Complying with this framework allows services to be delivered securely on a basic level and ensures security at the DNS level, particularly securing email communications. The .post environment also includes a dashboard that offers compliance tracking.

Connectivity was identified as a critical factor for effectively using post offices as service bureaus. The discussions highlighted that for post offices to fulfill their potential in facilitating digital transformation, they must have sufficient connectivity, especially in rural and remote areas. It was noted that connectivity goes beyond having PCs or internet connections at home; it includes the broader framework of using existing facilities like post offices to strengthen digital connectivity.

Digital inclusion was also a significant focus during the discussions. Talan Sultanov emphasised the importance of increasing digital literacy and skills in rural areas. The aim is to train local entrepreneurs on how to market their products online and prioritize underserved communities, such as girls, rural areas, and those with limited resources. Addressing the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital resources and opportunities were seen as crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The discussions also explored the potential of post offices in facilitating e-commerce and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It was recognised that building capacity in e-commerce within the postal sector is challenging due to limitations on IT skillsets and resources. However, the .post registration platform was highlighted as a solution to offer secure services, including DNS, email, web hosting, and e-commerce. This platform enables posts to obtain services and deploy rapidly, connecting traditional payment services. The cooperation agreement between the UPU and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) was seen as instrumental in providing these capabilities to the Caribbean postal services.

Furthermore, the discussions highlighted the role of post offices in achieving digital inclusion and economic growth. The postal network was perceived as pivotal in providing digital inclusion and economic opportunities in various countries. Examples such as ZimbabweMall and Rwanda Mall demonstrated how post offices offer national marketplaces where SMEs can sell their products online. Additionally, the post office network was viewed as an important resource for providing digital inclusion in Barbados.

It was also emphasised that implementing the initiative of using public infrastructure for digital inclusion should be done securely. Hackshaw stressed the importance of implementing the initiative while ensuring the safety and security of public infrastructure. Assistance and advice on securely implementing the initiative were offered during the discussions.

A noteworthy observation from the discussions was Hackshaw expressing gratitude for receiving free chocolate, which symbolised appreciation and recognition. It was also highlighted that treats like chocolate should be distributed equally, reinforcing the importance of treating everyone with fairness and inclusivity.

In conclusion, the discussions centred around the .post initiative, digital inclusion, and the role of post offices in facilitating digital transformation. The need for secure and trusted top-level domains, connectivity, and digital literacy were emphasized. The potential of post offices in e-commerce and supporting SMEs was highlighted, as well as the role of post offices in achieving digital inclusion and economic growth. The secure implementation of using public infrastructure for digital inclusion was underscored, and the importance of treating everyone equally was emphasised.

Paul Donohoe

Upon analysis of the statements, several important points regarding the role of the postal sector in fostering digital inclusion and bridging the digital divide have been identified. Here is a more detailed summary:

1. An interactive session will explore the transformative potential of the postal sector in promoting digital inclusion, with a particular focus on underserved communities. Juan will monitor the chat to ensure participants can interact effectively. The panel will bring forth examples of solutions that have successfully assisted disadvantaged communities in becoming part of the digital economy, emphasizing the interactive nature of the session.

2. Despite nearly 20 years of discussions on the Information Society, a significant digital divide still exists in many communities. Paul Donohoe highlights this divide and emphasizes the need to bridge the gap to achieve reduced inequalities and promote industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

3. Paul Donohoe believes in the concept of meaningful connectivity, especially for underserved communities. Ongoing discussions within the Global Connect Initiative (GDC) and World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) revolve around the exploration of meaningful connectivity, underscoring Paul’s stance and positive sentiment on the matter.

4. The postal network is a pivotal asset for digital inclusion, with over 650,000 postal locations worldwide and millions of workers in daily contact with people. This extensive reach and connectivity make the postal network an essential tool in ensuring digital access for underserved communities. The positive sentiment surrounding this argument aligns with the fundamental role the postal network plays in providing digital inclusion.

5. The postal network holds a crucial position in the digital society and serves as a driving force for progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Secretary-General’s message on World Post Day emphasizes the importance of the postal network in the digital world, and the new UPU connect.post initiative aims to connect every post office to the internet by 2030. These efforts signify the significant role the postal network plays in shaping a digital society and driving sustainable development.

6. The COVID-19 pandemic showcased the vital role played by the postal network. It was instrumental in delivering government aid and medical supplies, supporting SMEs by enabling them to trade online, and providing digital government and financial services to communities. The positive sentiment towards the postal network’s contribution during the pandemic underscores its ability to adapt and assist in times of crisis.

7. The postal network’s criticality for digital inclusion can be seen in its provision of services in local languages, aiding digital literacy and connectivity. Additionally, governments across the globe have utilized the postal network as a means of promoting digital inclusion. Examples such as the community access centers provided by Zimpost in Zimbabwe highlight the postal service’s significance in fostering digital inclusion, particularly in underserved communities.

8. The transformation brought about by e-commerce necessitates a more digitally capable postal network. People’s expectations from delivery services have increased due to e-commerce, and the postal services are evolving to meet these demands. Global examples highlight how postal delivery is adapting to modern needs, further supporting the argument of a digitally capable postal network.

9. Investing in postal networks can contribute to the sustainability of local communities by enabling local businesses to engage in e-commerce and providing digital literacy. The positive sentiment surrounding this argument reflects the understanding that strong postal networks can play a vital role in community sustainability and economic growth.

10. Collaborating with policymakers and integrating the postal network into digital inclusion initiatives can result in greater access and affordability. Post offices operating as Wi-Fi hubs, delivering affordable mobile devices, and connecting SMEs to e-commerce platforms can facilitate online business and narrowing the digital divide.

Other noteworthy observations include the Universal Postal Union (UPU)’s cybersecurity policy framework, which ensures secure service delivery to the posts. This framework is being deployed to strengthen the postal sector’s security. Furthermore, the UPU’s plan to provide secure services on the .post registration platform reflects their commitment to providing secure digital platforms for postal services globally.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the vital role played by the postal sector in achieving digital inclusion, bridging the digital divide, and supporting sustainable development goals. The postal network’s ability to adapt and provide essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasizes its significance. It is evident that the postal network’s extensive reach, connectivity, and evolving capabilities contribute significantly to promoting digital inclusion, connecting communities, and empowering underserved populations.

Talan Sultanov

The analysis of postal services and digital connectivity in Kyrgyzstan highlights several important points regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by the country. Firstly, it mentions that small landlocked and mountainous countries, like Kyrgyzstan, have unique challenges in terms of digital connectivity. Factors such as long distances, deserts, and mountains present obstacles to establishing efficient digital infrastructure.

The importance of digital literacy and skills is also emphasised in the analysis. It is stated that increased digital literacy and skills are vital for maximising the benefits of digitalisation. Digital skills training is specifically mentioned as a means to enable rural communities to effectively utilise e-government services, e-commerce, and FinTech services.

Reclaiming Central Asia’s status as an economic hub is another key argument put forward in the analysis. It is mentioned that Central Asia was once the centre of economic activity for many centuries due to the Silk Road and the efficient postal system. The analysis suggests that by embracing digitalisation and leveraging their unique geographical position, Central Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan, have the potential to reclaim their prominent economic status.

The potential benefits of digitalisation for postal services are also highlighted. It is argued that the digitalisation of postal services could greatly increase their efficiency. Proposals have been made to connect every postal office to the internet by 2030, which aligns with a similar initiative to connect every school to the internet.

The analysis also touches upon the need for more diverse internet content. It suggests that the current lack of representation of Central Asia and its history in digital platforms suggests a bias towards Western content. The argument is made that there is a need for greater diversity in internet content to reflect and value the cultural heritage and history of Central Asia.

Internet connectivity is seen as a significant factor in benefitting remote areas. The analysis cites positive examples from Kyrgyzstan, where internet connectivity has allowed postal officers in remote villages to check for mail without physically travelling to nearby towns. Improved internet connectivity has also aided in maintaining operations during harsh winter conditions.

Addressing the issue of foreign language content accessibility, the analysis mentions that providing internet to villages in Kyrgyzstan led to the challenge of foreign language content being inaccessible for locals. Efforts have been made to create digital content in the Kyrgyz language to bridge this gap and ensure that digital literacy can spur more information exchange.

However, the lack of resources in local languages is identified as a limiting factor that can restrict access to information. Despite efforts to bring internet to villages, the analysis notes that locals struggled to derive value from it due to the dominance of foreign language content. An initiative was launched to deliver books for children in the Kyrgyz language to address this issue.

The analysis also highlights opportunities for Kyrgyzstan’s postal services. It mentions that exploring opportunities with digitalisation, including e-commerce and providing banking services, could be beneficial. Examples from Japan are provided to support this argument, where the postal service plays a significant role in providing financial services.

Moreover, the critical role of postal services in facilitating government activities is discussed. The analysis states that postal services can play a crucial role in activities such as elections and data collection. The Kyrgyzstan Postal Service has been instrumental in collecting biometric data for elections, creating a trustworthy system that led to peaceful elections.

However, there are concerns about the security of biometric data collected through postal services. This aspect is mentioned as a negative sentiment and highlights the need to address data security issues in the collection and storage of such sensitive information.

The analysis identifies the potential for postal services to contribute significantly to the deployment of community networks. In Kyrgyzstan, postal offices actively participate in providing digital skills training. It is argued that postal officers can be at the forefront of providing these trainings and contribute to communal digital empowerment in their local communities.

Conclusively, the analysis underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by postal services and digital connectivity in Kyrgyzstan. It emphasises the importance of digital literacy and skills, reclaiming Central Asia’s economic prominence, the potential benefits of digitalisation for postal services, the need for diverse internet content, the positive impact of internet connectivity in remote areas, and the role of postal services in community networks and digital empowerment. The analysis also highlights concerns regarding foreign language content accessibility, the lack of resources in local languages, and data security. Overall, the observations and insights gained from the analysis shed light on potential strategies and areas of focus that could contribute to the development of postal services and digital connectivity in Kyrgyzstan.

Speakers