As the world becomes increasingly digital, I believe that digital solution is the critical solution for changing people’s lives, and even a country’s economic norms.
Early in July at the BRICS Civil Forum in Moscow discussions highlighted the varying impacts and benefits of digital technology across member nations.
A representative from Ethiopia noted that women are often overloaded with housework, limiting their ability to earn income and improve their living conditions. In contrast, a representative from India shared examples that digital tools have significantly improved women's health. A UAE representative emphasized the role of digital technology in enhancing children's education and ensuring their participation in artificial intelligence (AI) development.
Participating in the forum, I highlighted how social commerce tools from China have transformed the lives of women in Nigeria, showcasing the power of digital technology to drive socioeconomic change and empower individuals across different regions.
Recently the disparity in internet access and digital literacy among different regions has become more apparent. This digital divide is also significant in the BRICS countries, which encompass Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE. Addressing this divide is essential for fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that all members of society can benefit from the digital revolution.
According to the International Telecommunication Union, as of the end of 2023, 67 percent of the global population used the internet, yet 2.6 billion people remain offline.
In the context of BRICS countries, internet access varies significantly, from as low as 18 percent in Ethiopia to as high as 99 percent in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This disparity highlights the need for targeted strategies to enhance digital inclusion and build a role model within BRICS countries to promote digital equity and a prosperous future together. Solutions to its own problems can provide hopes and examples for other developing nations.
Key recommendations for BRICS countries to narrow digital divide include:
1. Infrastructure development: Investing in high-speed and reliable internet infrastructure is crucial, especially in underserved areas. This foundational step ensures that all regions have the necessary connectivity to participate in the digital economy.
2. Supportive policies: Formulating inclusive policies that address the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and senior citizens, is vital. These policies should focus on removing barriers to digital access and promoting equitable opportunities for all.
3. Affordability: Reducing the cost of digital access, including devices and data services, is essential to make the internet more accessible to all socioeconomic groups. Subsidies and affordable pricing models can play a significant role in it.
4. Digital literacy: Promoting digital literacy programs ensures that citizens are not only connected, but also proficient in using digital tools. Digital literacy is a critical component that empowers individuals to fully engage with and benefit from digital technologies.
5. BRICS cooperation and partnerships: By fostering collaboration among BRICS countries and establishing partnerships with tech firms and service providers, we can leverage collective expertise and resources. This cooperation can build collaborative digital economy projects to empower citizens, showcase pilot projects that improve country’s status, and share best practices worldwide.
6. Monitoring and evaluation: Establishing mechanisms to regularly assess the progress and impact of digital inclusion initiatives is necessary to ensure ongoing improvements and adjustments. Continuous evaluation helps maintain focus and effectiveness in bridging the digital divide.
In conclusion, bridging the digital divide in BRICS countries requires a multifaceted approach involving infrastructure development, policy support, affordability, digital literacy, and international cooperation. By working together and leveraging each country's strengths, BRICS nations can develop positive pilot projects and create a more inclusive and prosperous digital future for all, especially for the Global South long burdened by inequality.
The author is a Chinese member of the Information and Cybersecurity, Digital Development Working Group of the BRICS Civil Forum and a partner at Union Communications, a policy advocacy organization in Hong Kong, China.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.