The analog foundation of the digital revolution
To reap the benefits and avoid the pitfalls the World Bank formulates a set of recommendations. First of all, the roll-out of digital technologies should continue in order to realize affordable access for all.

But universal access is not enough. Almost as important is “strengthening the analog foundation of the digital revolution”, says the World Bank. The promise of the internet cannot come to fruition without “analog complements” such as regulations, institutions and adapting skill sets. Governments should provide regulatory frameworks that promote competition on the digital market and protect labor and consumer rights. Institutions that regulate the internet sector should be independent of both governments and operators. And in order to enable people to get the most out of the internet, their skill sets should improve. In developing countries the main focus should be to on eradicating illiteracy, in more developed countries on advanced ICT skills and lifelong learning.

Lastly, the internet should not only be accessible and affordable but also open and safe. Centralized platforms should be prevented from crowding out the open web and measures should be taken to reverse the trend of increasing cybercrime, privacy violations and online censorship.