Learn why Internet connectivity remains a problem for so many countries and how organizations are supporting closing the gap
Almost 2.7-billion people around the world don’t have Internet access, according to a report by the United Nations’ International Telecommunications Union (ITU). What’s more, many people are not meaningfully connected online, deepening the digital divide.
The cost for access is still an issue for many countries. But, that’s not all. Other barriers to connectivity include:
- limited digital literacy
- availability of content in local languages
- low social acceptance
Many small community-based networks are developing local solutions — such as drones and satellites — with tech giants and organizations raising financing and amending related polices, reports Devex.
“As technologies evolve, there are new opportunities to harness systems that can really change the game for marginalized individuals and populations currently being left behind,” says Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the secretary-general of ITU.
At Children Believe, we help connect kids, youth and community members to the web and keep safe online. We’re working with our ChildFund Alliance partners around the globe on an initiative called WEB Safe and Wise. The goal is to team up with government authorities, tech leaders and civil society so kids can engage safely online.
End the digital divide. Help keep children safe and connected online by supporting digital learning through our catalogue today.