LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS
Key Insights
Efforts to foster sustainable and inclusive digital development targeted Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Challenges in connectivity, policy, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, and e-waste were addressed across regions through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
Collaborating with governments, international organizations, and the private sector, initiatives strengthened the environment for investment, innovation, and access while building resilience and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Support reached 39 LDCs, 27 LLDCs, and 31 SIDS through technical assistance, policy development, knowledge products, awareness sessions, and data provision. Some countries received multiple interventions—up to five in cases like Mali, Senegal, Zimbabwe, and Jamaica.
In LLDCs, 21 cross-regional projects are accelerating digital transformation. These include digital skills training through transformation centres and online academies; support for cost-effective digital public services in Rwanda and Kazakhstan; broadband infrastructure mapping in Botswana, Burundi, Ethiopia, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe; and initiatives on e-waste policy and rural network development to promote a circular economy.
In LDCs, 19 projects are under way to advance early warning systems, cybersecurity, broadband mapping, digital integration, connectivity, digital infrastructure and access to information and communication technology.
In SIDS, 16 projects are making a difference in digital transformation, digital skills, and cybersecurity.
In July, Facts and Figures: Focus on Landlocked Developing Countries was published, tracking digital progress in LLDCs based on 2024 estimates. The report provides an overview of connectivity, affordability, and digital policy, highlighting both the diversity of experiences and shared challenges across LLDCs. It offers insights to guide action toward universal and meaningful connectivity.
The BDT Director led the ITU delegation to the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), held in Awaza, Turkmenistan, from 5 to 8 August 2025. In delivering the general debate statement, the BDT Director stressed that ITU’s role is to support LLDC governments in strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks, managing spectrum dynamically, deploying resilient networks, fostering innovation, and building digital skills, while promoting inclusive and affordable access to connectivity.
Read the full statement.
In Focus
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