Closing Broadband Connectivity Divides for All

By OECD

Access to high-quality broadband connectivity at affordable prices is vital in today's interconnected world, yet disparities between rural and urban areas - known as spatial connectivity divides - persist. As digital transformation accelerates, ensuring that everyone is connected "well" in terms of broadband availability, network quality and affordability - regardless of where they live - is more critical than ever. The first step in addressing this challenge is measuring the extent of these gaps to understand the state of connectivity and enable evidence-based policies. This report introduces a novel approach by leveraging third-party data for over 60 countries on various broadband indicators. By applying harmonised spatial definitions, it assesses broadband performance and availability at a subnational level in the urban-rural continuum. Drawing on these insights, the report explores how policymakers across the OECD and partner economies are setting both overarching policies and tailored approaches to close connectivity divides.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9264708669
• ISBN13: 9789264708662
• Release Date: July 2025
• Publisher: OECD
• Length: 98 Pages
• Weight: 0.53 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 8.3" x 11.0"