Overview
Digital inclusion means ensuring that all people can access and benefit from digital information, products and services equally and equitably. Access to digital technologies and services is closely linked to sustainable social and economic development.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) works to promote digital inclusion by supporting connectivity, affordability, accessibility, digital skills development and enabling policy and regulatory conditions in line. ITU digital connectivity and inclusion initiatives align with global targets set out by the United Nations for education, health, economic opportunity and broader socio-economic inclusion.
Opportunities
Countries with adequate information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure can gain a competitive edge in trade and economic development, while digital skills enable businesses and citizens to participate in the world's growing digital economy. Connected people and communities, meanwhile, gain better access to information, health services, education, disaster warnings, financial services and employment opportunities.
Challenges
Despite significant progress in connectivity, about 2.2 billion people – nearly a quarter of the world's population – still were not using the Internet in the 2025. Many live in rural and remote areas, least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).
Digital divides extend beyond access to infrastructure and connectivity. Differences in affordability, digital skills, device ownership, quality of service and the ability to make meaningful use of digital technologies can also limit participation in the digital economy and society.
ITU's contribution
Digital inclusion and development
ITU works with governments, regulators, industry, academia, civil society and international organizations to support digital inclusion and reduce digital divides associated with age, disability, gender, geography, skills and socioeconomic status.
Connectivity, infrastructure and enabling environments
ITU supports the development of ICT infrastructure, networks, services and enabling policy and regulatory environments that help expand affordable access to connectivity and digital services.
Standards, spectrum and international cooperation
International standards development, spectrum management and global coordination through ITU conferences serve to advance digital inclusion globally.
Data, research and analysis
ITU collects and publishes ICT statistics and indicators that help governments and stakeholders understand digital divides, benchmark progress and inform policy decisions.
Awareness, capacity development and inclusion initiatives
ITU promotes digital inclusion through awareness-raising, capacity development, skills initiatives, accessibility work and partnerships aimed at reducing barriers faced by underserved populations. A range of ITU initiatives address youth, children, accessibility, gender equality, indigenous peoples, rural communities, digital skills and financial inclusion.
Last update: September 2026
