Publication: Increasing Access to Technology for Inclusion
Date
2023-02
ISSN
Published
2023-02
Author(s)
Aranda Jan, Clara
Qasim, Qursum
Abstract
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. 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.
Citation
“Aranda Jan, Clara; Qasim, Qursum. 2023. Increasing Access to Technology for Inclusion. Issues and Practice Note Series. © World Bank, Washington DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/39495 License: CC BY-NC 3.0 IGO.”