Connectivity is essential as global leaders address the digital divide

At the World Governments Summit in Dubai on February 11, 2025, industry leaders from the telecom sector convened to discuss the importance of improving digital connectivity. This issue is particularly pressing as the International Telecommunications Union reported that approximately 2.6 billion people globally, or a third of the world's population, lack access to the internet. During the panel discussion, Margherita Della Valle, CEO of Vodafone Group, emphasized that society is moving towards a new divide between those who have access to connectivity and those who do not, highlighting the urgency of addressing this disparity. She mentioned that 300 million unconnected individuals reside in remote areas with limited access to connectivity infrastructure, underscoring the need for innovative solutions such as satellites to bridge this gap. Furthermore, Della Valle's company plans to launch a commercial direct-to-smartphone satellite service in Europe later this year, which aims to improve connectivity for those in isolated regions. The telecom leaders also addressed the dual impact of connectivity on both society and businesses. Hatem Dowidar, group CEO of e& (formerly known as Etisalat Group), stated that connecting people not only addresses a social issue but also creates business opportunities. He noted their evolution into a technology-driven company, providing services in fintech, cybersecurity, and cloud computing to enhance customer engagement and revenue. This sentiment reflects a broader consensus among the panelists that businesses can thrive by prioritizing their customers’ connectivity needs. Mickey Mikitani, CEO of Rakuten Group, called for a radical transformation in the telecom industry, labeling the traditional telecom business model as outdated. He advocated for removing barriers to entry, such as high costs for accessing wireless spectrum, which could democratize and enhance connectivity for consumers. The discussion also included the role of artificial intelligence in improving connectivity and managing telecommunications networks more efficiently. Mikitani noted that their advanced use of AI has allowed Rakuten to manage networks with fewer staff compared to competitors, suggesting a significant shift in operational capabilities. Finally, Dowidar urged government representatives present at the summit to engage with industry leaders to develop suitable legislation and regulations. He highlighted various hurdles, including data sovereignty, security, and the necessity for better AI training in multiple languages beyond English. By fostering dialogue between public officials and industry players, Dowidar believes that the full potential of technology to transform society can be realized. The emphasis on digital access at the summit underscores its critical importance in shaping equitable opportunities in the modern world.