As the world becomes more and more digital, the concept of the “digital divide” is more important than ever. The term refers to the divide between those who have access to technology and those who do not. This disparity can have a significant impact on people’s lives, especially when it comes to accessing important information and opportunities.
For those living in affluent neighborhoods where broadband Internet service is the norm, the debate rages on trying to boost productivity and limit screen time with new tools like ChatGPT. In a region saturated with digital technology and connectivity, human contact isLuxuryThose who can afford it opt out of their data and their attention is sold as a product.
However, access to many services is out of reach for some people due to lack of Internet access. U.S. Digital Divide Report reveals wide variations between US states in terms of accessibility to Internet services, digital adoption and use. Access to telemedicine, online banking and distance learning services is hampered by a lack of digital access, exacerbating inequities and historical injustices. For example, the report found that nearly half of Americans without internet at home are in Black and Hispanic households.
Investment in Internet infrastructure is essential to bridging this gap, but infrastructure alone does not necessarily lead to digital adoption and beneficial use. This is where tech companies have the potential to capitalize on that power. From mobile banking applications that give the unbanked access to financial resources, to web applications that help people connect globally, technology companies can play a role in facilitating digital inclusion.Latest results from World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA) Digital Inclusion BenchmarkHowever, it shows that less than 14% of the world’s leading technology companies are digitally inclusive.
After evaluating 200 technology companies around the world to see if they expand access to digital technology, improve digital skills, reduce usage risks, and ensure inclusive and ethical innovation, According to WBA survey results, only 27 out of 200 companies scored at least 50% on key criteria.
“It’s not enough to just look at access or potential access to the Internet,” explains Pauliina Murphy, Engagement & Communications Director for the World Benchmarking Alliance. “Companies need to look at the bigger picture of what it takes to be digitally inclusive.”
The best-performing companies across the benchmarks are Telefonica, Orange, Deutsche Telekom, Apple, and Microsoft, all demonstrating a clear commitment to data privacy and child protection. They identify what they are doing, conduct impact assessments to understand the risks, and try to fill gaps by, for example, conducting skills programs for women and girls. “Companies that demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting human rights, respecting decent work and acting ethically excel in digital inclusion.
“Voluntary disclosures about social performance are a good starting point for many companies looking to become digitally inclusive,” explains Murphy. Disclosure allows companies to engage with stakeholders such as investors, employees and customers to identify relevant issues on which the company can focus and influence. At the same time, businesses must take special consideration to engage and listen to the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations in developing countries who currently have the least digital access.
Bridging the digital divide requires a multifaceted approach. While we need to address practical barriers to access, we need to look at the broader cultural and social factors that contribute to disparities. Taking a more holistic approach has the potential to create a more digitally equitable and inclusive society.