This panel focuses on the challenges of Small Island Development States (SIDS), a prioritised group of countries in the 2030 Agenda, in removing barriers to connectivity. Of specific focus of the panel is the experience from the Caribbean region, and the efforts needed to remove barriers and stimulate better access in the region. It describes which “Caribbean” we are talking about and what measures could be taken to enhance the Internet economy.

The recent report published by the Internet Society entitled: “Unleashing the Internet in the Caribbean: Removing Barriers to Connectivity and Stimulating better Access in the Region, forms the basis for this discussion.

The challenges include are:

·      clear and forward looking policy and regulatory frameworks;

·      greater private-sector participation and innovation;

·      initiatives that foster greater public participation;

·      ICTs projects that are properly aligned with countries’ need and priorities;

·      A regional approach and system of collaboration.