Written by Vaibhav Kumar
Jindal Global Law School,
O.P. Jindal Global University,
Haryana, India.
Email: 22jgls-vkumar@jgu.edu.in
The digital revolution, marked by the rapid advancement of information and communication technologies (ICTs), is reshaping societies globally (Srivastava & Chandra, 2021). While the Global North has largely benefited from this transformation, the Global South, comprising developing countries, faces distinct challenges and opportunities. This article explores the potential of the digital revolution to foster development in the Global South, acknowledging the existing digital divide and outlining key challenges and potential solutions. The digital divide between those with and without access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) is particularly pronounced between the Global North and South. As reported by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU, 2023), only 46% of individuals in the least developed countries used the Internet in 2022, compared to 87% in developed countries. This limited access hampers education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and societal progress.
However, the digital revolution offers unprecedented opportunities for development in the Global South. Digital platforms democratise access to information and knowledge, empowering individuals and fostering knowledge-based economies (Srivastava & Chandra, 2021). The rise of digital entrepreneurship and start-ups in the Global South creates jobs and drives economic growth. For instance, M-Pesa in Kenya facilitates financial inclusion and access to markets. (Buku & Meredith, 2013) Additionally, telemedicine and mobile health applications are bridging gaps in healthcare access.(Mbunge et al., 2022)
Challenges hinder the realisation of these opportunities. Infrastructure constraints pose a major barrier, particularly in rural areas of the Global South, where reliable internet access and electricity are often lacking (ITU, 2023). Investment in infrastructure development is crucial to bridge the digital divide (Esfahani & Anayi, 2020). The digital literacy and skills gap is another significant challenge. Education and training programs are essential to empower individuals to fully participate in the digital economy (World Bank, 2021). Regulatory frameworks and policies can either hinder or foster digital development. Streamlining regulations to encourage innovation and investment while ensuring data privacy and security is vital for creating a conducive environment for digital transformation.
Success stories across the Global South showcase the transformative potential of digital technologies. The digital revolution extends its impact beyond developed nations, as evidenced by success stories from the Global South. In India, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has empowered millions through access to digital financial services, promoting financial inclusion for those lacking traditional banking access (Reserve Bank of India, 2023). Similarly, digital learning platforms like Khan Academy offer free and accessible educational resources, allowing students in developing countries to learn at their own pace and supplement their education (Khan Academy, n.d.). Telemedicine applications like mHealth in Rwanda are increasing access to healthcare services in remote areas by enabling remote consultations, diagnoses, and treatment recommendations for geographically isolated communities (World Health Organization, 2020). These examples showcase the transformative potential of digital technologies in improving lives and empowering communities across the Global South.
In conclusion, the digital revolution presents a unique opportunity for the Global South to progress rapidly. However, addressing the digital divide, bridging the digital literacy gap, and creating an enabling regulatory environment are crucial for maximising the transformative potential of technology. Collaborative efforts by governments, businesses, and civil society are essential for inclusive and sustainable digital development in the Global South.
References:
Buku, M. W., & Meredith, M. W. (2013). Safaricom and M-PESA in Kenya: Financial Inclusion and Financial Integrity. 8 WASH. J. L. TECH. & ARTS, 375. Link
Esfahani, H. S., & Anayi, G. (2020). Bridging the digital divide: A literature review and an agenda for future research. Telecommunications Policy, 44(5), 101917. Link
International Telecommunication Union. (2023). Facts and figures 2023. Link
Khan Academy. (n.d.). Khan Academy: Free online courses, lessons & practice. Link
Mbunge, E., Batani, J., Gaobotse, G., & Muchemwa, B. (2022). Virtual healthcare services and digital health technologies deployed during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in South Africa: A systematic review. Global Health Journal, 6(2), 102-113. DOI Link
Reserve Bank of India. (2023). Performance of Payment Systems in India – January 2023. Link
Srivastava, M., & Chandra, S. (2021). Special Issue on the Digital Economy in the Global South. The Journal of Technology Transfer, 46(8), 2393-2394. Springer. Link
World Bank. (2021). World development report 2021: Data for a better world. Link
World Health Organization. (2020). Global digital health strategy 2020-2025. Link
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author (s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Jindal Centre for the Global South or its members.
Global South Studies Series 