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Abstract :
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This contribution was initially intended for Question 5/1 from the previous study period, which corresponds to Question 1/1 for the 2026-2029 study period. The persistent digital divide excludes nearly a third of the global population, with stark disparities in gender, geography, and income. Despite the internet's critical role in education, employment, and economic development, traditional commercial models fail to deliver affordable, high-speed connectivity to rural and underserved communities. Universal Service Funds (USFs) and large-scale investments have expanded access, but profit-driven approaches struggle in low-revenue areas, leaving millions without internet. Community-centered connectivity initiatives, often led by Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), offer a scalable and sustainable alternative. These models prioritize local ownership, participatory governance, and innovative business strategies, dramatically reducing operational costs. By leveraging existing community trust and infrastructure, SMME-led networks not only provide connectivity but also drive digital literacy, local content creation, and economic empowerment-directly supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Policy momentum is growing, with the ITU, OECD, and G20 endorsing community networks as complementary solutions. Yet systemic barriers persist, including restrictive licensing, limited spectrum access, and inadequate financing.
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