Achieving universal, meaningful Internet connectivity by 2030 could require an investment of USD 2.6 trillion to USD 2.8 trillion at current prices, according to the Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint released today by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) – the UN agency for digital technologies – and the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The report outlines the challenges, projected costs, and collaborative strategies needed to make sure everyone, everywhere, can use the Internet, including the estimated one-third of humanity currently offline.
The largest investment component — USD 1.5 trillion to USD 1.7 trillion — is required for hard infrastructure, alongside substantial funding for human and institutional capacity, mainly in developing countries.
“Digital connectivity means creating opportunities for education, jobs, and access to essential services that can transform lives and communities,“ said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. „While significant resources are needed to meaningfully connect everyone, these are investments that will contribute to a prosperous digital future for all.“