Development
The Enlightenment and the expansion of science and technology between the sixteenth and twentieth centuries are the roots of current thinking on the connection between development and technology. The assumption that technology and development are intrinsically linked, as well as the notion that technology can solve most social problems, are at the foundation of this thinking. The digital era has reaffirmed the concept of the enabling power of technology. In its simplest form, more technology should lead towards more development.
Despite this age-old notion, the relationship between technical advancement and social advancement is not necessarily automatic. Additionally, technological advances can worsen existing inequalities or create new ones.
The development basket includes the following public policy issues: sustainable development, access, inclusive finance, e-waste, and capacity development. Development issues are cross-cutting affecting all other baskets, ranging from the telecommunications infrastructure in developing countries, through capacity building for cybersecurity protection, to questions of multilingualism as a way to broaden use of the internet in the developing world.
Digital access
Did you know that digital access is a critical issue for many people worldwide? Learn about the challenges of bridging the digital divide and promoting access to digital technologies by checking out our topic on digital access. From policy solutions to best practices, our expert analysis covers it all....
Capacity development
Do you know the importance of capacity development in the digital age? By improving knowledge, skills, and institutions, individuals can effectively navigate developments related to ICTs and policy implications. But capacity development is much more than training - it includes strengthening institutional capacities and developing individual competencies. Check out the Digital Watch Observatory's page to learn more about the importance of capacity development for digital transformation....
Inclusive finance
How can digital technologies enhance financial inclusion for the unbanked? Digital technologies have been instrumental in achieving this goal! Mobile money and digital lending enable people to access financing without visiting a physical institution to apply. While the intersection of finance and digital technologies comes with challenges and risks, it has also created new opportunities for financial inclusion....
Sustainable development
How can digital technologies help us achieve sustainable development goals? Discover how digital technologies can help us tackle global challenges, and bridge divides between developed and developing countries....