PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY, BOKKOS

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION

POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL MASS

COMMUNICATION
CREDIT UNITS: 2 COURSE CODE: MAC 419

COURSE LECTURER: MR MICHAEL NUHAI DEM

michaeldem@plasu.edu.ng
SAMDAGWI: ONE WORLD, MANY VOICES
INTRODUCTION
The field of international Mass communication explores the intricate relationship
between politics and communication in the global context. It delves into how
communication processes, media systems, and technologies influence and shape
international relations, diplomacy, and the formation of public opinion.
Understanding the politics of international communication is crucial in an era where
information flows across borders at an unprecedented speed and has the potential to
impact geopolitical dynamics.

DEFINITION, SCOPE, AND SIGNIFICANCE OF INTERNATIONAL

COMMUNICATION
We will begin by discussing the definition and scope of international communication.
We will also look at those factors that distinguishes international communication
from domestic communication. The question; how do cultural, linguistic, and
technological factors shape the flow of information across national boundaries will
be answered. We will again explore the interconnectedness of global communication
networks and the impact of globalization on international communication patterns.

Understanding International Mass Communication and the Politics Within it

International Mass Communication refers to the transmission of information, ideas,
and messages on a large scale across national borders and diverse cultures using
various media platforms. This form of communication plays a crucial role in
facilitating global interactions, shaping public opinion, and fostering understanding
among people from different parts of the world.

In the modern interconnected world, International Mass Communication has become

increasingly significant due to advancements in technology and the widespread use
of digital media. Through channels such as television, radio, print media, and the
internet, information can be disseminated rapidly and reach audiences worldwide
almost instantaneously. This global reach has the power to influence perceptions,
attitudes, and behaviors on a massive scale, making International Mass
Communication a powerful tool for shaping public discourse and promoting
intercultural dialogue.
One of the key aspects of International Mass Communication is cultural exchange.
Through the exchange of news, entertainment and other forms of content, people
from different cultures can gain insights into each other's way of life, beliefs, and
values. This exposure can help break down stereotypes, promote mutual
understanding and foster cross-cultural appreciation.

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Moreover, International Mass Communication plays a significant role in shaping
global politics, economics, and social issues. News coverage of international events
can influence public opinion and government policies, while advertising and
marketing campaigns can shape consumer behavior and market trends on a global
scale. The power of media in shaping public discourse and influencing decision-
making processes cannot be underestimated in the context of international mass
communication.
However, it is important to note that International Mass Communication is not
without challenges. Cultural differences, language barriers, censorship, and media
bias can all affect the accuracy and effectiveness of communication across borders.
Moreover, the dominance of certain media conglomerates and the spread of
misinformation and fake news present additional challenges to the integrity and
credibility of international mass communication.
It should be noted that international mass communication is a vital aspect of our
interconnected world, facilitating the exchange of information, ideas and culture
across national boundaries. By promoting dialogue, understanding, and global
awareness, international mass communication has the potential to bridge divides,
foster cooperation, and contribute to a more interconnected and informed global
society.

It is on the strength of the foregoing that we can refer to Politics of International

Mass Communication as the complex interplay between political actors,
governmental bodies, media organizations and international entities in shaping the
flow of information, ideas and narratives across borders. This field of study
examines how power dynamics, ideologies, regulations and policies influence the
production, dissemination and reception of news and media content on a global scale.

Significance of International Mass Communication

International Mass Communication plays a significant role in our interconnected
world in various ways some of which include:

Cultural Exchange: International mass communication facilitates the exchange of

cultural ideas, values, and perspectives across borders. It helps in promoting mutual
understanding, appreciation and respect for diverse cultures, thereby fostering
intercultural dialogue and reducing prejudices and stereotypes.

Global Connectivity: Mass communication on an international scale helps connect

people from different parts of the world, enabling them to stay informed about global

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events, trends and issues. It creates a sense of global community and
interconnectedness among individuals, regardless of their geographical location.

Information Dissemination: International Mass Communication serves as a crucial

channel for disseminating information, news, and knowledge on a global scale. It
helps in raising awareness about important issues such as human rights,
environmental sustainability, public health and social justice, thereby empowering
individuals to make informed decisions and take action.
Promotion of Democracy: International Mass Communication plays a vital role in
promoting democratic values and principles by providing a platform for free speech,
public debate, and the exchange of diverse viewpoints. It holds governments and
institutions accountable, fosters transparency and encourages civic engagement and
participation in the decision-making process.

Economic Impact: International Mass Communication influences global markets,

consumer behavior and economic trends through advertising, marketing, and
business news. It helps companies reach a worldwide audience, expand their markets,
and drive economic growth and innovation on a global scale.
Conflict Resolution: International Mass Communication can contribute to conflict
resolution and peace building efforts by promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and
understanding among conflicting parties. Through media initiatives such as peace
journalism and conflict-sensitive reporting, international mass communication can
help prevent the escalation of conflicts and promote peaceful resolutions.
Crisis Response: In times of crises such as natural disasters, pandemics, or
humanitarian emergencies, international mass communication plays a critical role in
disseminating emergency alerts, mobilizing resources, and coordinating relief
efforts. It helps in connecting affected populations with aid organizations, volunteers
and support services, facilitating a more effective response to emergencies.

It can be said notably that international Mass Communication serves as a powerful

tool for promoting global understanding, fostering cooperation, and advancing
human development on a global scale. Its significance lies in its ability to bridge
cultural divides, promote dialogue, and empower individuals to engage with the
world around them in meaningful ways.

What distinguishes International Mass Communication from domestic Mass

Communication?

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 International mass communication and Domestic Mass Communication differ in
several key aspects which include:

Audience Diversity: One of the primary distinctions between international and

domestic mass communication is the audience reach and diversity. International
mass communication targets a global audience, encompassing individuals from
different countries, cultures, languages, and backgrounds. In contrast, domestic mass
communication focuses on a specific national or regional audience within the
boundaries of a single country.

Cultural Sensitivity: International Mass Communication requires a greater

emphasis on cultural sensitivity and understanding due to the diverse audience it
reaches. Communicators must consider cultural norms, values, beliefs, and language
differences when crafting messages for an international audience. Domestic mass
communication, on the other hand, may have a more homogeneous cultural context
within a specific country or region.
Language Considerations: International Mass Communication often involves the
use of multiple languages to reach audiences across different countries and regions.
Translations, localization, and multilingual content are essential in international
communication to ensure effective message delivery and audience engagement. In
contrast, domestic mass communication typically relies on a single primary language
used within the country or region of focus.
Regulatory Environment: International Mass Communication is subject to a
complex regulatory environment that varies across countries and regions.
Communicators must navigate different legal frameworks, censorship laws, cultural
sensitivities, and media regulations when disseminating content internationally.
Domestic mass communication is generally governed by the regulatory policies and
media laws of the specific country or region where the communication takes place.

Global Issues: International Mass Communication often focuses on global issues,

events, and trends that have cross-border relevance and impact. Topics such as
international politics, global economics, climate change, human rights, and
international conflicts are common themes in international mass communication.
Domestic mass communication, on the other hand, may prioritize local or national
issues that are specific to the country or region of focus.

Media Platforms: International Mass Communication utilizes a wide range of

media platforms and channels to reach a global audience, including television, radio,
print media, online platforms, social media, and mobile technologies. Domestic mass

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communication may place more emphasis on traditional media outlets and platforms
that are popular within the specific country or region.

Overall, the distinctions between international mass communication and domestic

mass communication lie in the scope of audience reach, cultural considerations,
language diversity, regulatory environments, focus on global issues, and media
platforms used. Understanding these differences is essential for communicators and
media professionals to effectively engage with diverse audiences and navigate the
complexities of global communication.

The Interplay of Cultural, Linguistic, and Technological Factors in

Information Flow Across National Boundaries
In our interconnected world, the flow of information across national boundaries is
influenced by a complex interplay of cultural, linguistic, and technological factors.
These factors shape how information is disseminated, received, and understood
across diverse societies, contributing to both the enrichment and challenges of global
communication.

Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping the flow of information across
national boundaries. Each culture has its own values, beliefs, norms, and traditions
that influence how information is interpreted. Cultural differences can lead to
misunderstandings or misinterpretations of messages, impacting the effectiveness of
communication. For example, a message that is considered acceptable in one culture
may be perceived as offensive in another, affecting the transmission of information
across borders.

Linguistic factors also play a crucial role in information flow across national
boundaries. Language is the primary medium through which information is
communicated, and the choice of language can significantly impact the effectiveness
of communication. Language barriers can hinder the flow of information, leading to
misunderstandings and miscommunication. Translation and localization efforts are
essential to bridge linguistic gaps and ensure that information can be effectively
transmitted across different language speakers.

Technological factors have revolutionized the way information flows across national
boundaries. Advancements in communication technologies, such as the internet,
social media, and mobile devices, have made it easier for information to be shared
globally in real-time. These technological developments have facilitated cross-
cultural communication and enabled individuals from different parts of the world to
connect and exchange information effortlessly. However, technological factors also

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present challenges, such as the spread of misinformation and the potential for
information manipulation.

The interaction of cultural, linguistic, and technological factors shapes the dynamics
of information flow across national boundaries. Understanding and navigating these
factors are essential for effective cross-cultural communication and global
information exchange. By recognizing and addressing cultural differences,
overcoming language barriers, and leveraging technological advancements
responsibly, we can promote a more inclusive, interconnected world where
information can flow freely and meaningfully across diverse societies.

It suffices to say that the flow of information across national boundaries is a complex
process influenced by cultural, linguistic, and technological factors. By
acknowledging and embracing these factors, we can enhance cross-cultural
communication, foster mutual understanding, and promote a more interconnected
global community.

TRANSNATIONAL NEWS NETWORKS

Transnational news networks are media organizations that operate across
national borders and provide news coverage, analysis, and commentary
on global events and issues. These networks have a global reach and cater
to audiences in multiple countries, offering diverse perspectives on
international news and affairs.
Key characteristics of transnational news networks include:
Global coverage: Transnational news networks cover a wide range of
international news topics, including politics, economics, culture and
social issues with a focus on providing a comprehensive understanding of
global events.
Multilingual content: Many transnational news networks offer content
in multiple languages to reach diverse audiences around the world. This
helps to make news and information accessible to a wider global audience.
Cross-border reporting: Transnational news networks often have
reporters, correspondents, and news bureaus stationed in different
countries to provide on-the-ground coverage of international events and

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developments. This allows them to offer firsthand reporting and analysis
from various regions.
Cultural sensitivity: Transnational news networks strive to be culturally
sensitive and respectful of diverse perspectives and viewpoints from
around the world. They aim to provide a balanced and nuanced portrayal
of global issues to their audiences.
Examples of transnational news networks include:
CNN (Cable News Network): CNN is a U.S.-based news network that
operates internationally, with news bureaus and correspondents in various
countries. It provides 24-hour news coverage and analysis on global
events.
BBC World News: BBC World News is the international news and
current affairs television channel of the British Broadcasting Corporation
(BBC). It offers news coverage from around the world and is widely
watched globally.
Al Jazeera: Al Jazeera is a Qatar-based news network that covers
international news with a focus on the Middle East and global affairs. It
has a significant global audience and provides in-depth reporting on a
wide range of topics.
DW (Deutsche Welle): DW is a German international broadcaster that
offers news and information in multiple languages, including English,
Spanish, Arabic, and more. It provides coverage of global news, politics,
culture, and business.

These transnational news networks play a crucial role in informing and

engaging audiences worldwide, providing diverse perspectives on global
events and issues and promoting cross-cultural understanding and
awareness.
Significance of Transnational news networks on Global Politics
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Transnational news networks, which operate across borders and reach
audiences in multiple countries, can have a significant influence on global
politics in several ways:
Global reach: Transnational news networks have the ability to reach
audiences around the world, allowing them to shape perceptions and
opinions on global political events and issues. Their coverage can
influence how people in different countries understand and interpret
international developments.
Agenda setting: These networks play a key role in setting the global news
agenda by determining which stories are covered and how they are framed.
Their decisions on what to report and how to report it can influence the
priorities of policymakers, opinion leaders, and the general public on a
global scale.
Cross-cultural communication: Transnational news networks facilitate
cross-cultural communication by providing international perspectives on
political events. They can help audiences understand different viewpoints
and experiences from around the world, fostering greater global
awareness and empathy.
Soft power: Through their reporting and editorial decisions, transnational
news networks can project soft power by promoting certain values, norms,
and narratives that align with the interests of their owners or the countries
in which they are based. This can influence global perceptions of countries
and their policies.
Information dissemination: Transnational news networks serve as
important channels for the dissemination of information and analysis on
global politics. They provide a platform for experts, policymakers, and
activists to share their views and engage in debates that can shape
international discourse.
Crisis reporting: During times of international crises or conflicts,
transnational news networks play a crucial role in informing the global
community and shaping public opinion on how to respond. Their coverage
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can influence public perceptions of the causes and potential solutions to
global challenges.

It is important to recognize the influence that transnational news networks

have on global politics and to critically evaluate the information they
provide to ensure a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of
international events and issues.
GLOBAL MEDIA CONGLOMERATES
Global media conglomerates are large, multinational corporations that
own and operate a diverse portfolio of media assets across different
platforms, including television networks, radio stations, film studios,
publishing houses, online media outlets, and more. These conglomerates
have a significant presence and influence in the global media landscape
due to their extensive reach, resources, and market power.
Key characteristics of global media conglomerates include:
Diversified portfolio: Global media conglomerates own and manage a
wide range of media properties in various sectors, such as broadcasting,
print media, digital media, entertainment, and telecommunications. This
diversification allows them to reach audiences through multiple channels
and platforms.
International presence: These conglomerates operate on a global scale,
with a presence in multiple countries and regions around the world. They
often have subsidiaries, partnerships, or licensing agreements in different
markets to expand their reach and influence.
Vertical and horizontal integration: Global media conglomerates
engage in vertical integration by owning multiple stages of the production
and distribution process, from content creation to distribution. They also
pursue horizontal integration by acquiring or merging with other media
companies to expand their market share and influence.

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Economies of scale: By consolidating various media assets under one
corporate umbrella, global media conglomerates can benefit from
economies of scale, cost efficiencies, and increased bargaining power in
negotiations with content creators, advertisers, and distributors.
Cross-promotion and synergy: Global media conglomerates leverage
their diverse media properties to cross-promote content and products
across different platforms. This synergy allows them to maximize
audience reach, engagement, and monetization opportunities.
Influence on public opinion: Due to their reach and audience penetration,
global media conglomerates have the potential to shape public opinion,
influence political discourse, and set cultural trends on a global scale.
Their editorial decisions, content choices, and messaging can have a
significant impact on societal perceptions and attitudes.
Examples of global media conglomerates include companies like
Comcast (owner of NBCUniversal), The Walt Disney Company,
ViacomCBS, AT&T (owner of WarnerMedia) and Sony Corporation
(owner of Sony Pictures Entertainment) among others. These
conglomerates play a central role in the media industry and have a
profound impact on the way information, entertainment, and news are
produced, distributed and consumed worldwide.
Significance of Global media conglomerates on Global Politics
Global media conglomerates can have a significant influence on global
politics due to their reach, resources and ability to shape public opinion.
Here are some ways in which these conglomerates can impact global
politics:
Agenda setting: Global media conglomerates have the power to decide
which issues are covered in the news and how they are framed. By setting
the agenda, these conglomerates can influence what issues are prioritized
in public discourse and ultimately in political decision-making.

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Persuasion and framing: Media conglomerates can shape public opinion
on political issues through the way they present information. By framing
stories in a particular way or using persuasive language, they can
influence how audiences perceive political events and actors.
Ownership and control: The concentration of media ownership in the
hands of a few conglomerates can limit diversity of viewpoints and stifle
independent journalism. This can lead to the promotion of certain political
ideologies or interests over others.
Political advertising: Global media conglomerates often control
significant advertising space, which can be used by political parties and
interest groups to reach a wide audience. This can influence political
campaigns and public perceptions of candidates and policies.
Soft power: Through their global reach, media conglomerates can project
soft power by promoting certain cultural values, norms, and narratives
that align with the interests of their owners or the governments they are
associated with. This can influence global perceptions of countries and
their policies.
Regulatory capture: Media conglomerates may have significant
influence over policymakers through lobbying and other forms of political
pressure. This can result in policies that benefit the interests of the
conglomerates at the expense of the public interest.
It is important to be aware of the influence that global media
conglomerates can have on global politics and to critically evaluate
information from a variety of sources to ensure a more balanced and
informed understanding of political issues.
POPULAR CULTURE
Popular culture refers to the mainstream cultural practices, beliefs, ideas,
trends, and attitudes that are prevalent and widely accepted within a
society at a given time. It encompasses various forms of cultural
expression that are accessible, enjoyed, and consumed by a large segment

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of the population, reflecting the tastes and preferences of the general
public.
Popular culture can include elements such as music, film, television,
fashion, literature, art, sports, social media, memes, slang, and other forms
of entertainment and leisure activities that are popular and widely
recognized within a society. It is often characterized by its mass appeal,
commercialization, and rapid dissemination through modern
communication channels.
Popular culture is dynamic and constantly evolving, influenced by social,
political, economic, and technological factors. It serves as a reflection of
society's values, norms, and interests, providing a lens through which
people can understand and engage with the world around them. Popular
culture can also play a significant role in shaping individual and collective
identities, as well as influencing attitudes, behaviors, and trends within a
society.
Overall, popular culture is an integral part of everyday life that shapes
how people interact, express themselves, and make sense of the world,
serving as a vibrant and ever-changing cultural landscape that reflects the
diversity and creativity of human society.
Significance of Popular Culture on Global Politics
Popular culture can have a significant influence on global politics by
shaping public perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors in various ways. Here
are some key ways in which popular culture impacts global politics:
Soft Power: Popular culture, including music, movies, TV shows, fashion,
and social media trends, can contribute to a country's soft power by
promoting its values, ideals, and way of life to a global audience. This can
influence how a country is perceived internationally and can help build
relationships and influence opinions in other countries.
Cultural Diplomacy: Popular culture can be used as a tool for cultural
diplomacy, enabling countries to engage with other nations through

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shared cultural experiences. Cultural exchanges, festivals, and
collaborations in the arts can foster mutual understanding and goodwill
between countries, potentially shaping diplomatic relations.

Social movements: Popular culture often reflects and reinforces social

and political movements. Music, art, literature, and film can inspire
activism, raise awareness of social issues, and mobilize people to support
political causes and movements on a global scale.
Identity formation: Popular culture plays a significant role in shaping
individual and collective identities. It can influence how people perceive
themselves and others, as well as how they relate to political ideologies,
social movements, and global issues.
Celebrity influence: Celebrities and influencers who are prominent
figures in popular culture can use their platform to raise awareness about
political issues, advocate for specific policies, and mobilize their
followers to support causes. Their influence can extend globally and
impact public opinion on a range of political issues.
Media representation: The representation of political figures, events,
and ideologies in popular culture can shape public perceptions and
attitudes toward politics. Movies, TV shows, and other forms of
entertainment often portray political themes and characters that can
influence how viewers understand and engage with political issues.
Consumer activism: Popular culture can influence consumer behavior
and preferences, including attitudes toward environmental sustainability,
social justice, and ethical business practices. This can lead to the rise of
consumer activism movements that pressure companies and governments
to address global issues.

Overall, popular culture plays a complex and significant role in shaping

global politics by influencing public opinion, promoting cultural
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exchange, fostering social movements, and shaping identities and
behaviors on a global scale.
SOFT POWER
Soft power is a term coined by political scientist of Harvard University,
Joseph Nye to describe a nation's ability to influence others through
attraction and persuasion rather than coercion or force. Unlike hard power,
which relies on military might and economic sanctions to achieve goals,
soft power is about shaping the preferences of others through culture,
values, and policies that are appealing and inspiring. For Nye, Soft Power
attempts to co-opt rather than coerce.
Soft power can come from various sources, including a country's culture,
political values, foreign policies, education system, and global reputation.
For example, the popularity of American movies, music, and fashion
around the world contributes to the United States' soft power, as these
cultural exports help to shape perceptions of American values and way of
life.
Countries can also leverage soft power through diplomacy, international
aid, and support for global initiatives that promote peace, democracy, and
human rights. By championing these values on the international stage, a
country can enhance its reputation and influence other nations to align
with its interests and objectives.
Soft power is a subtle and indirect form of influence that relies on building
relationships, trust, and credibility with other countries and peoples. It is
not about imposing one's will but about winning hearts and minds through
positive engagement and collaboration. In today's interconnected world,
where information flows freely and public opinion matters, soft power has
become increasingly important in shaping global politics and diplomacy.
In conclusion, soft power is a valuable tool for countries to advance their
interests and achieve their goals in the international arena. By projecting
a positive image, promoting universal values, and engaging constructively
with others, nations can build influence and strengthen relationships in a
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way that benefits not only themselves but also the broader global
community.
MEDIA FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY
The mass media create standards for public behavior by informing,
educating, and entertaining the public; this allows citizens to participate
in governance. Therefore, it is impossible to overlook how important the
mass media are to advancing democratic ideals, particularly when it
comes to achieving sustainable development and good governance. This
discourse is based on the democratic-participant theory and aims to
ascertain the relationship between the media, democracy, and governance,
as well as provide a direction for the media in line with the developmental
demands of society. This clarifies the function of the media in enabling
citizens to actively engage in the political process as a means of
expressing their sovereignty—all crucial components of democracy and
sound governance.
To ensure simpler media access for all potential users and consumers,
democratic participation theory emphasizes the need to dismantle the
current bureaucracy as well as commercial and professional
predominance in media systems (Folarin, 2002). The focus of this theory
is user engagement and interaction along with content pluralism at the
grassroots level, despite the fact that the idea has many different practical
applications.
The democratic-participant theory, which was first put forth by Dennis
McQuail in 1987, promotes the democratization of the media in order to
make it accessible to everyone (Asemah, 2011). In essence, the theory
emphasizes the necessity of popular participation as well as plurality in
media ownership and access. The main point is that everyone, regardless
of social class, needs to have access to the media in order for them to
express their opinions about what is going on in society.
Examining the Intersection of Democracy, Governance, and the Mass
Media

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An institution like the media is necessary to help these values become
entrenched in society because democracy is understood as a system that
functions on the principles of equality, participation, majority rule and
minority rights, rule of law and due process, respect for human rights, and
free and fair elections.
Additionally, the media, which offers viable outlets for the free exchange
of ideas and opinions as well as unrestricted access to information, enables
the people to actively participate in governance, thereby exercising their
sovereignty as guaranteed by the constitution. The media must give
people access to all the information they need to protect and guide their
voting decisions if democracy is to flourish in any particular society (Jega,
2014). As a result, in a democracy, the media acts as a conduit between
the people and politics.
Impediments to Media's Performance in the Quest for Sustainable
Democracy and Good Governance
International media plays a crucial role in shaping global politics by
informing the public, influencing opinions, and holding governments and
institutions accountable. However, several challenges can impede the
effective contributions of international media to global politics:
 Censorship and Control: In many countries, governments tightly
control the media, limiting the freedom of press and expression. This
censorship can prevent the media from reporting on important
global issues objectively and can lead to biased or incomplete
coverage.
 Fake News and Misinformation: The rise of fake news and
misinformation on the internet has made it difficult for international
media to maintain credibility. Misinformation can distort public
perception, influence political decisions, and undermine the media's
role as a reliable source of information.
 Commercial Pressures: Many international media organizations
are driven by commercial interests, which can influence the type of
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 news coverage they provide. Sensationalism, clickbait and the
prioritization of profit over quality journalism can distort the
representation of global politics.
 Political Bias: International media outlets may have inherent biases
based on their ownership, political affiliations, or national interests.
This bias can affect the way global events are reported and
interpreted, leading to a lack of objectivity and balance in coverage.
 Language and Cultural Barriers: Language barriers can limit the
reach and impact of international media, making it challenging to
communicate effectively with diverse global audiences. Cultural
differences can also affect how news is perceived and understood in
different parts of the world.
 Security Concerns: Journalists working in conflict zones or
authoritarian regimes face threats to their safety and freedom, which
can hinder their ability to report on global politics accurately and
independently.
 Technological Challenges: The rapid pace of technological
advancements presents challenges for international media in
adapting to new platforms, formats, and distribution channels.
Keeping up with changing technology trends can be costly and
resource-intensive for media organizations.
 Lack of Diversity: The lack of diversity in newsrooms and among
journalists can lead to a narrow perspective on global issues. A lack
of representation of different voices and viewpoints can limit the
quality and relevance of international media coverage.
Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from media
organizations, governments, civil society, and the public to uphold the
principles of free press, promote media literacy, and support independent
journalism in the global political landscape.
WHAT IS THE DIGITAL DIVIDE?
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It should be noted that there is no one digital divide. At a high level, the
digital divide is the gap between those with Internet access and those
without it. But the digital divide is multifaceted and includes many factors
such as access, affordability, quality, and relevance.
Here are some of the things that lead to disparities in Internet access:
 Availability: Is there available access to the Internet in your area?
Is there a nearby point of connection to the Internet? If yes, this is
just the first step to having Internet access.
 Affordability: Is that access affordable? How does the cost compare
to other essential goods? What percentage of your income do you
need to pay for access?
 Quality of service: Are the upload and download speeds sufficient
for the local needs of Internet users?
 Relevance: Does the connected community have the necessary
skills and technologies? Is there local interest and understanding of
the relevance of Internet access? Are there locally available
mobile apps? Is there content in the local language and relevant to
the people in the community?
 Additional divides: Other areas that can create digital inequality
include security, interconnectivity, digital literacy, and access to
equipment.
These gaps in availability, affordability, interest, and digital literacy exist
at the international level as well as the neighborhood level.
Countries that have high overall connectivity rates often still have stark
inequalities in rural, remote, and even urban areas. Often these gaps fall
along other disparities such as income and gender-based inequality. For
instance, the United States has high overall connectivity rates, but there is
a marked gap in availability of affordable and sustainable Internet access
on Indigenous lands.

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The Latest Data on Digital Divide
The UN’s Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development in
2019 estimates that nearly 3.6 billion people remain totally unconnected
to the Internet by any measure. This means there are around 4.1 billion
people online, about 53.6% of the global population.

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COVERAGE INTERNET COMPUTER
SPECIFICATION ACCESS ACCESS
world Urban: 72% Urban: 63%
Rural: 37% Rural: 25%
Africa Urban: 28% Urban: 17%
Rural: 6% Rural: 2%
Arab States Urban: 74% Urban: 67%
Rural: 38% Rural: 34%
Europe Urban: 88% Urban: 82%
Rural: 78% Rural: 66%
developed Urban: 87% Urban: 84%
Rural: 81% Rural: 66%
Developing Urban: 65% Urban: 54%
Rural: 28% Rural: 17%
Source: UN’s Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development
(2019)

THE DIGITAL DIVIDE EXACERBATES OTHER DIVIDES

There no gain mentioning the fact that lack of access can deepen other
divides and inequalities. People without connectivity are often those with
lower incomes. This lack of Internet access creates further barriers to
economic opportunities and mobility. The digital divide is fueled by and
contributes to many other socioeconomic inequalities. Digital exclusion
has many adverse impacts. Here are a few:

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  Access to healthcare and its outcomes: Internet access is an
important public health issue. Lack of access means exclusion from
vital health information and resources. Health experts now insist
that broadband Internet access must be recognized as a social
determinant of health.
 Economic opportunities: For both workers and business owners,
lack of quality broadband means decreased economic opportunities
and competitiveness in the digital economy.
 Educational opportunities: Lack of Internet access for school aged
children means that they are denied the educational benefits of the
Internet. This gap perpetuates unequal learning outcomes and has
been particularly difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 Limited access to employment opportunities: Lack of access to
broadband internet can limit access to employment opportunities, as
many resources and opportunities are now available online.
 Lower quality of life: In general, lack of access to broadband
internet can lead to a lower quality of life, as it limits access to a
wide range of resources and services that are now mostly available
online and accessible via mobile devices capable of gigabit
connectivity.
 Barriers to Digital Literacy: Digital literacy refers to a person’s
ability to use ICTs to find, evaluate, create, and communicate
information. However, users who lack access to ICTs do not have
the opportunity to develop digital literacy skills, which further
exacerbates the digital divide. It can become more difficult to
develop these skills as technology advances and becomes more
complex.

These and many more inequalities are perpetuated by the digital divide.
This makes bridging the gap all the more urgent.

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