[CODATA-international] ITU-T Webinar on Policy and Economic Incentives for Internet Affordability | 28 February, 18:30 IST

[anup kumar das]

The ITU-T Focus Group on costing models for affordable data services
<https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/focusgroups/cd/Pages/default.aspx> is
analyzing the supply chain of telecom/ICT, the multiple cost models and
pricing strategies used for mobile data services and Internet services as
well as studying the policy, economic, regulatory, and standardization
aspects related to cost models for affordable data services, including best
practices of cost assessment methodologies and economic models. As part of
its activities, the Focus Group is organizing a series of
webinars targeting the areas of focus under study.

The purpose of the webinar is to explore how government policies and
economic measures can influence the cost and accessibility of Internet
services especially for landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) and small
island developing states (SIDS).

The* second episode *of this webinar series will focus on *P**olicy and
economic incentives for internet affordability* and will take place on
*28** February
2024* from 18:30 IST.

Efforts to enhance the affordability of international internet connectivity
require a multifaceted approach incorporating both policy framework and
economic incentives. Policymakers often aim to foster competition among
service providers, encourage innovation, and drive down costs.
Additionally, regulatory measures can promote infrastructure development
ensuring that diverse regions have access to robust connectivity.

Economic incentives play a pivotal role in attracting private investment in
the expansion and maintenance of Internet infrastructure. Governments may
offer tax breaks or subsidies to incentivize companies to invest in
underserved areas. Collaboration between government, private sector, and
international organizations becomes essential to create a sustainable model
that balances affordability and quality of service.

Therefore, striking the right balance between policy and regulatory
frameworks and economic incentives is crucial for achieving an affordable
and accessible internet.

*Objectives of the webinar:*

   - To illustrate the distinct challenges LLDCs and SIDs encounter in
   terms of international internet connectivity and explore tailored solutions.
   - Examine how policy frameworks can be adapted to address the
   geographical constraints of landlocked nations and SIDs, promoting
   connectivity and affordability.
   - Discuss strategies for prioritizing and investing in critical internet
   infrastructure to overcome logistical challenges and improve connectivity.
   - Explore economic incentives that are particularly beneficial to
   landlocked countries and SIDS, attracting investment and fostering
   connectivity.
   - Discuss the importance of regional collaboration and cross-border
   initiatives to enhance international Internet connectivity for landlocked
   nations.


*Target audience: *Telecom regulators, mobile network operators, industry
associations, cost model experts, policymakers, Internet Exchange Point
operators and Internet service providers


*Register here*
<https://itu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wJ20XkfxT-ifA0LnrpuJ6w#/registration>
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