Developing countries cannot view the digital transition as a luxury, but as a necessity if cities and countries wish to be a part of the new global economy. Regardless of country or income level, governments are grappling with how to embrace technology shifts to achieve better outcomes for citizens. However in emerging economies, governments will need to play an even more significant role to ensure economic models promote inclusive development. In particular, being they will need to ensure they are aware of concurrent risks and opportunities that digital technologies provide, and ensure they take action to mitigate risks and provide a supportive enabling environment to foster opportunities for inclusion.
This paper therefore sets out the 8 keys issues that governments and donors should take into consideration when designing policy and programmes: Automation and Jobs; Labour Policy, Inequality; The Youth Bulge; Disability; Women’s Economic Empowerment; Data, Privacy and Cyber-security; and Digital Monopolies.