Connectivity in the Least Developed Countries
Status report 2021

A joint publication by ITU and UN-OHRLLS

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Update – March 2023: Check out our latest LDC publication – Facts and Figures: Focus on Least Developed Countries!

The Connectivity in the Least Developed Countries: Status report 2021, produced by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), assesses the level of digital connectivity in the 46 UN-designated Least Developed Countries (LDCs). It provides practical solutions to improve digital access, as well as concrete policy recommendations to help accelerate progress towards universal and affordable connectivity.

In an effort to advance towards digital accessibility, the report identifies ways to boost Internet connectivity and usage in LDCs by raising awareness of the benefits of being online, improving digital skills for everyone, expanding connectivity to rural communities, making connectivity and hardware more affordable and emphasising the importance of working together so that everyone can truly benefit from today’s life-changing technologies.

Connectivity in the Least Developed Countries: Status report 2021

Permalink: https://www.itu.int/en/myitu/Publications/2021/09/17/11/46/Connectivity-in-the-Least-Developed-Countries-Status-report-2021

Watch the report summary video here

How can we connect the 75% of people living in LDCs that are still offline?

Although the vast majority of the 1 billion people who live in Least Developed Countries is covered by a mobile broadband signal, only 25% are online. Internet connectivity is an enabler of economic and social development, and is a lifeline during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for businesses, schools, hospitals and other essential services.

Connectivity is a critical determinant of every country’s future growth and prosperity. Working together, we can ensure that everyone can truly benefit from today’s life-changing technologies.

For detailed insights, download your copy of the report now!