Publication: Increasing Access to Technology for Inclusion
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2023-02
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2023-02
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Digital technology has introduced innovative business models and changed how society operates. Through digital technology, access to services can be increased and more people can be reached, particularly those from underserved groups, such as women, people in rural communities and persons with disabilities. Yet, gaps in access to digital technology deepen inequalities and have social costs and economic implications. Countries have lost out on $1 trillion in GDP due to the digital exclusion of women (Alliance for Affordable Internet, 2021). Grounded in examples extracted from research and World Bank Group operations with client countries and clients in the private sector, this policy note presents interventions that aim to close the gaps in digital inclusion. These examples demonstrate that the public and private sectors have significant roles to play in ensuring digital technology reaches women, aligns with their needs, and strengthens their economic empowerment. This policy note provides impetus for the World Bank Group to continue strengthening its work on the digital inclusion of women and underserved groups.
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“Aranda Jan, Clara; Qasim, Qursum. 2023. Increasing Access to Technology for Inclusion. Issues and Practice Note Series. © World Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/39495 License: CC BY-NC 3.0 IGO.”
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