Mostrando artículos por etiqueta: broadband

The concept of ‘meaningful universal connectivity’has emerged as the focus of efforts to promote the benefits of online participation while mitigating the potential downsides of digital connectivity. It encompasses broadband adoption that is not just available, accessible, relevant and affordable,but that is also safe, trusted, empowering users and leading to positive impact. Successful approaches to delivering meaningful universal connectivity are cognizant of the nuances that characterize barriers to access at local and regional levels. Internet users are as diverse as the global population itself. Users are not simply online or offline, but rather take myriad strategies to engage in the digital economy.‘Meaningful universal connectivity’ strategies also recognize that non-technology and non-economic issues play a central role in decisions to participate online or not, such as lack of digital skills, linguistic and literacy barriers, social norms, and cultural attitudes. This report reflects on the policies and recommendations that have made an impact in reaching the 51% adoption threshold, and considers different approaches that may better address the needs of the next 49%, including measures to ensure current internet users continue to see net positive returns from participating online.‘Meaningful universal connectivity’ focuses not only on infrastructure and supply-side initiatives, but also on thoughtful approaches to demand-side issues, meeting the needs and expectations of those who aren’t connected, while ensuring individuals who are already online continue to see value in continued participation.