The level of integration into the digital economy matters more and more as it can significantly affect countries’ economic growth and human development. Due to connectivity and access gap, however, new forms of inequality are emerging; countries with better connectivity are enjoying better access to digital services and opportunities and the rest are left behind.

The potential of digital technologies and services has given way to the promise of a digital world, spurring economic growth, improving health outcomes, and lifting millions out of poverty. Tapping into this potential and promise is central to USAID’s mission of helping countries on their journey to self-reliance by promoting inclusive growth and resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity. In an effort to recognize USAID Missions, the Lab is hosting the second annual Digital Development Awards (“the Digis”).

There are several ways to promote fiber to the premises (FTTP) deployment in the Asia-Pacific region. The digital divide in the region is extreme: with several developing countries lacking access to broadband while others have very high rates of deployment and penetration of FTTP. The article discusses several opportunities and challenges in tackling the digital divide.

Developments in ICT connectivity is essential for e-commerce to flourish, according to United Nations conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Discussions centered around the theme “Development Dimensions of Digital Platforms” will be held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva on 16-20 April 2018. The fourth E-Commerce Week is expected to explore the role of digital platforms toward sustainable development and ways to harness these technologies.

#DQEveryChild is an initiative by the DQ Institute in association with the World Economic Forum to assess, educate and protect children in the digital environment. The campaign stands for Digital Intelligence Quotient and it aims to maximize opportunities and minimize risks for 100 countries by 2020. The DQ Institute believes that every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed in the digital world while being protected.