The United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) consist of 17 goals established to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice.
Notably, telecommunications can facilitate progress in 70% of the SDG targets, impacting areas such as education, health, gender equality, and economic growth. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) emphasized that digital technologies are crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of development initiatives, providing essential infrastructure for data collection, communication, and the implementation of programs aimed at achieving these goals.
The ITU is actively supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and SDGs in the Asia Pacific region through various normative, analytical, and capacity-building activities. By emphasizing the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) as enablers of sustainable development, the ITU is assisting member states in mainstreaming SDGs into their development plans and strategies. The ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) has facilitated the creation of innovative policies and regulations designed to leverage ICTs for developmental work, underscoring its significance in achieving the SDGs.
To ensure inclusivity, the ITU is committed to connecting the world and leaving no one behind, especially in developing nations facing financial and technical constraints. The organization promotes international cooperation in the areas of radio spectrum, satellite orbits, and communication infrastructure, which are crucial for fostering seamless interconnectivity across diverse systems. By organizing global events such as the Global Symposium for Regulators and initiatives like the Girls in ICT celebration, the ITU engages stakeholders from various sectors to empower youth and promote gender equality in technology, thereby contributing to sustainable growth in the region.
Recognizing the existing digital divide that affects vulnerable populations, the ITU has reinforced the importance of reliable and affordable digital services. The organization has taken significant steps to ensure that digital infrastructure and services are accessible to all, particularly in the Asia Pacific. The ITU’s efforts include launching the Global Network Resiliency Platform to maintain the robustness of telecommunications networks, and facilitating collaboration among governments, industry, and civil society to enhance digital access and inclusion.
Moreover, the ITU is leveraging partnerships with organizations such as the World Bank, the GSMA, and the World Economic Forum to promote immediate actions designed to strengthen connectivity and capacity. By engaging in various initiatives, such as the COVID-19 Global Education Coalition and the Digital Development Joint Action Plan, the ITU aims to address the unique challenges posed by connectivity issues while ensuring that ICTs continue to play a vital role in achieving the SDGs across the Asia Pacific. Through these collective efforts, the ITU remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a digital society that benefits all.
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Enhancing Connectivity and Reducing Inequality
Enhancing connectivity and reducing inequality is a primary SDG goal, specifically ‘Goal 10,’ which aims to address disparities within, and among, countries. Access to quality telecommunication services is crucial for bridging the digital divide, especially in rural and underserved areas. In the Asia Pacific, significant connectivity disparities exist, with urban areas often well-served while rural populations lack access to basic mobile services.
India's Digital India initiative, launched in July 2015, seeks to transform the nation into a digitally empowered society by improving online infrastructure and increasing internet accessibility, particularly in rural areas. With objectives focused on secure digital infrastructure, essential digital services, and universal internet access, this initiative aims to boost various sectors, doubling the contributions to the core-digital-industries GDP by 2025.
Despite advancements, India still faces a digital divide that contributes to economic disparities. The Digital India initiative addresses this gap through key programs like Aadhaar, BharatNet, and public Wi-Fi hotspots, particularly benefiting small towns and rural areas.
As of March 2024, internet penetration reached 67%, with states like Kerala and Telangana leading in connectivity.
Collaborations with technology firms like Google and Amazon Web Services further support the initiative by enhancing digital literacy and fostering innovation.
Looking ahead, Digital India is set to propel the economy toward a projected USD 1 trillion by 2025, driven by a cultural shift toward digital lifestyles and increased adoption of digital payments.
By leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain, the government aims to create millions of jobs and equitable opportunities, positioning Digital India as a vital component of the nation’s strategy for reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development.
Related: Internet Access in India: The Nation Attempts to Connect the Unconnected
Advancing Healthcare
Telecommunications also plays a vital role in improving healthcare access and outcomes, directly contributing to ‘Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.’ Telehealth services and mobile health applications have become essential tools for delivering healthcare, especially in remote areas.
Vietnam has made significant strides in integrating telemedicine into its healthcare system. Telemedicine in Vietnam has emerged as a transformative solution for improving healthcare access and outcomes. Defined as the provision of healthcare services remotely through information and communication technology, telemedicine allows healthcare professionals to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases without in-person interactions. Since the implementation of the Healthcare Law and Circular No. 30 in 2023, which established a legal framework for telemedicine, Vietnam has displayed a notable digital transformation within its healthcare sector.
The introduction of the VTelehealth platform has enabled the integration of various healthcare systems, facilitating seamless access to high-quality medical care, particularly for patients in remote areas. By enabling the continuous monitoring of chronic diseases, reducing administrative burdens, and optimizing resource utilization, telemedicine significantly enhances service accessibility and efficiency within the healthcare sector.
Moreover, it plays a vital role in public health by facilitating the early detection of diseases and ensuring timely interventions. Despite challenges related to compliance, data security, and competition among healthcare facilities, telemedicine's potential to revolutionize Vietnam's healthcare landscape remains promising, paving the way for improved health outcomes and greater equity in healthcare access.
Read More: IoT and Its Role in Revolutionizing the Healthcare Industry
Fostering Economic Growth
Telecommunications is a key driver of economic growth and job creation, aligning with ‘Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.’ The digital economy relies heavily on telecommunications infrastructure, enabling businesses to operate efficiently and access global markets.
E-commerce in Indonesia is a dynamic force contributing to ‘Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth’ in the SDGs. The Indonesian e-commerce market, projected to grow from USD 52.93 billion in 2023 to USD 86.81 billion by 2028, is the largest in Southeast Asia, accounting for over 52% of the region's total e-commerce revenue in 2022. This growth is fueled by increasing digital adoption, particularly in tier-two and tier-three cities where e-commerce penetration remains relatively low.
Also Read: The Digital Revolution: Driving E-Commerce in the Asia Pacific
The government's regulatory framework, including Government Regulation 80 of 2019 and the recent Minister Trade Regulation No. 31/2023, aims to streamline e-commerce operations while protecting local businesses and ensuring consumer safety.
As e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Tokopedia, and Lazada lead the market, they create substantial job opportunities and stimulate economic activity by facilitating transactions across various sectors, including fashion, electronics, and food.
Moreover, the rise of social commerce reflects shifting consumer preferences, as platforms like TikTok and Instagram enhance the shopping experience and provide entrepreneurs, especially women and small business owners, with new avenues for income generation.
Ultimately, Indonesia's e-commerce sector not only drives economic growth but also fosters decent work opportunities, contributing to the nation's overall development.
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