The
Measuring digital development: The affordability of ICT services 2024 report presents the current state and recent trends on the costs of fixed and mobile broadband baskets for consumers based on ITU’s ICT price data collection covering over 200 economies.
In 2024, significant progress was made in broadband affordability, with mobile broadband services becoming more accessible across most regions and income groups, with a record number of economies now meeting the Broadband Commission’s target. The affordability of ICT services improved at a rate surpassing the long-term trend, yet stark disparities persist. While mobile broadband is increasingly within reach, fixed broadband remains largely unaffordable for many, especially in low-income economies. Even where services are affordable on average, significant gaps persist within countries. Affordability continues to be a central obstacle to universal and meaningful connectivity, closely linked to weaker infrastructure, lower investment, and low income levels.
