UN Warns of Widening Digital Divide as 1.37 Billion Remain Disconnected

Charity Chikara

19.09.24

UN officials have issued a warning that developing regions are at risk of falling behind in the rapidly evolving digital world and have since called for increased efforts to assist developing nations in integrating digital tools and infrastructure into their governance systems.

While global advancements in digital government services are progressing, significant disparities remain between regions, according to Navid Hanif, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development.

The UN reports that despite improvements, approximately 1.37 billion people globally still lack access to digital services, underscoring a persistent digital divide. While many countries are leveraging technology to enhance government functions and public engagement, the gap between the most and least connected regions continues to widen.

Data presented by UN officials highlighted Denmark as the world’s top digital performer, with Germany, Spain, and Saudi Arabia also ranking among the top 18 nations in digital government development. However, these advancements stand in stark contrast to the challenges faced by developing nations, particularly in Africa.

Vincenzo Aquaro, Chief of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs’ Digital Government Branch, emphasized the urgent need for more support to help these regions bridge the digital divide and reduce inequalities in access to technology.