The least developed countries: ICT landscape and possible directions of support

Abstract

The ICT landscape in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is characterized by a diverse array of infrastructure, services and public perceptions of new technologies. The dynamics of informatization within these countries are examined, focusing on the connectivity parameter to rank the 48 countries in this group. Additionally, critical components of infrastructure are highlighted, and socio-technical problems associated with ICT development are addressed, including the prevention of non-use, cargo cult mentality, and the challenge of developing local digital platforms. The analysis reveals the following key findings. 1. The notion that the future of ICTs in LDCs should rely solely on mobile communications is deemed premature due to the impact of the pandemic. 2. It is imperative to adapt services for the segment of the population in LDCs that will continue to utilize the Internet through “fixed computers with fixed access + 2G telephones” in the forthcoming years. 3. The UN agencies’ objectives of achieving widespread adoption of digital government, distance education, and e-commerce services are not always immediately attainable for LDCs. Consequently, it is concluded that the directions of international support for this process should be recalibrated in the post-Covid era.