Affordable Connectivity

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Affordable Connectivity

ITU-D Priorities

Affordable Connectivity

This priority seeks to foster access to telecommunications/ICTs for all, including the Internet, digital communication services, space-based radiocommunication services, broadband, voice services and devices, at a cost that is reasonable and affordable for individuals or households, relative to their income, without causing financial hardship. Under this priority, BDT will continue providing assistance to Member States in the development of telecommunications/ICTs infrastructure and services, expanding broadband access and coverage, and ensuring emergency telecommunications and disaster risk resilience. Particular focus shall be given to addressing barriers to rural connectivity in developing countries. (These include the least developed countries, small island developing states, landlocked developing countries and countries with economies in transition.)

In Focus

Key Topics

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Mainstreaming the Needs of LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS

​ICTs help the least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developed countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS), to address their specific development challenges. LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS face a number of connectivity barriers: many LDCs have large land areas and rural populations, and are sparsely populated, which makes the roll-out of terrestrial communication infrastructure more difficult. LLDCs lack direct access to the sea and many SIDS have numerous islands and often face high communication costs.
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