Internet as a Human Right: Bridging the Digital Divide for Global Equity.

Internet is essential for individuals to participate fully in modern society. It serves as a key tool for communication, education, economic opportunities, and the exercise of fundamental rights.

United nations recognizes the importance of digital connectivity, stating that it “enables access to information, education, and opportunity.” This highlights the internet’s role in promoting sustainable development and inclusive participation in the digital age. Yet, a 2020 UN report revealed that 4.1 billion people, more than half of the world’s population, remain offline, demonstrating the global digital divide. This gap limits individuals from engaging fully in society and accessing economic and social opportunities online.?

Access to the internet also supports freedom of information, a fundamental human right recognized in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It allows individuals to seek, receive, and share information across borders, which is vital for fostering democratic participation. Despite progress, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) report shows that 84% of countries have made advances in connecting rural areas, but significant disparities remain, especially in developing nations where access to educational and informational content online is limited.

In education, the internet opens access to online learning platforms and resources that may otherwise be unavailable, particularly in remote or underserved areas. It enables individuals to gain new skills and pursue educational opportunities. A report by the World Economic Forum reveals that 90% of jobs now require digital skills. Online platforms have become essential, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional educational systems were disrupted. However, UNESCO research highlights that millions of children in low-income countries lack the necessary devices or internet connectivity to engage in digital education.?

Economically, the internet facilitates digital entrepreneurship, remote work, and e-commerce, offering opportunities for individuals to earn a living and contribute to the global economy. According to McKinsey, 80% of the global workforce could work remotely in some capacity, underscoring the importance of digital connectivity for employment opportunities. Platforms like Upwork have allowed people in underserved regions to create small businesses and access global markets. The World Bank estimates that digital economies could add $6.7 trillion to global GDP by 2025, demonstrating the economic potential of universal internet access.

The internet is also critical in healthcare, providing access to health information, telemedicine, and social services, which improves public well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine allowed people to consult doctors and access mental health support remotely. In rural regions, where physical infrastructure may be limited, the internet has been crucial for delivering healthcare services. WHO reports show that telemedicine has been effective in reaching underserved populations and improving healthcare delivery.?

Despite being recognized as a human right, barriers to universal internet access persist, including the digital divide, censorship, inadequate infrastructure, and government restrictions. These challenges particularly affect marginalized groups, such as those with low incomes or living in remote areas. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, highlighted that 2.2 billion children and young people under 25 still lack internet access at home, hindering their participation in educational and economic activities.

The digital gap is mostly seen in Sub-Saharan Africa, where only 20% of the population has internet access, compared to over 80% in Europe. Furthermore, some governments impose internet shutdowns or censorship, limiting access to information and stifling freedom of expression.

However, there is hope for a more connected Africa. A GSMA report predicts that by 2025, 4G coverage in Sub-Saharan Africa will increase to 60%, up from 46% in 2022, with mobile broadband penetration rising significantly. Bridging Africa’s internet gap requires collective efforts from governments to create an enabling environment through pro-digital policies, reducing taxes on internet services, and streamlining regulations to attract investment in connectivity infrastructure. Co-finance infrastructure projects, promote digital literacy, and expand access to electricity—critical for operating internet infrastructure in underserved areas—is also expected from African states. Yet, political instability, corruption, and limited funding in many African countries can hinder these efforts.

Private sector companies, particularly telecoms and tech firms, are key in reducing internet service costs, deploying innovative technologies like satellite internet, and creating localized content. These companies can also fund community projects to provide free or subsidized internet in schools, hospitals, and public spaces. However, high infrastructure costs and regulatory barriers often deter private sector participation in rural and low-income areas.

International organizations and development partners play a vital role by providing financial aid, technical expertise, and strategic support for connectivity programs. Organizations like the 世界银行 , UNESCO , and the International Communication Union are already working to reduce Africa’s digital divide and promote equitable access. However, dependency on external funding raises concerns about the sustainability of these projects.

Local civil society organizations can also contribute by building community networks, advocating for inclusive policies, and training marginalized groups, such as women, youth, and rural populations, in digital skills. However, limited resources and support make scaling these efforts challenging. Aademic institutions also play a role by studying local connectivity challenges, promoting STEM education, and collaborating with the private sector to develop local talent and solutions. Yet, limited funding for research often restricts their impact, leaving a gap in local capacity building.

The future of a connected Africa lies in collaboration across sectors. Universal internet access can unlock new economic opportunities, enhance education and healthcare, and position Africa competitively in the global digital economy.

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