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Different paths to universal access: The impact of policy and regulation on broadband diffusion in the developed and developing worlds

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  • Gulati, Girish J.
  • Yates, David J.

Abstract

The authors examine the broadband digital divide by analyzing the impact of policy and regulation on broadband Internet diffusion. Their multiple regression analysis shows factors that determine broadband diffusion in technologically developed countries do not necessarily have the same impact in less developed countries. They show that in technologically developed countries, there is greater broadband diffusion in countries that make a higher financial investment in information and communication technologies (ICTs), have effective governing practices at the national level, have higher levels of education, and are more urban. In technologically developing nations, a competitive telecommunications sector and higher investment in ICTs lead to greater broadband diffusion, with investment having an even larger impact in the developing world than in the developed world. In addition, stronger democratic political institutions, higher levels of national income and lower levels of income inequality increase diffusion, but the presence of a national telecommunications regulatory authority has a negative impact. These results suggest that the path to widespread availability and use of broadband requires different strategies depending on a nation's level of technological development.

Suggested Citation

  • Gulati, Girish J. & Yates, David J., 2012. "Different paths to universal access: The impact of policy and regulation on broadband diffusion in the developed and developing worlds," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(9), pages 749-761.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:36:y:2012:i:9:p:749-761
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2012.06.013
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    8. Winkler, Kay, 2014. "Potential Effects of New Zealand's Policy on Next Generation High-Speed Access Networks," Working Paper Series 19308, Victoria University of Wellington, The New Zealand Institute for the Study of Competition and Regulation.
    9. Adam, Ibrahim Osman & Alhassan, Muftawu Dzang, 2021. "The effect of mobile phone penetration on the quality of life," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 45(4).
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    11. Bacha, Radia & Gasmi, Farid, 2022. "The broadband diffusion process and its determinants in Algeria: A simultaneous estimation," TSE Working Papers 22-1309, Toulouse School of Economics (TSE).
    12. Stier, Sebastian, 2017. "Internet diffusion and regime type: Temporal patterns in technology adoption," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 41(1), pages 25-34.
    13. Winkler, Kay, 2014. "Potential Effects of New Zealand's Policy on Next Generation High-Speed Access Networks," Working Paper Series 4347, Victoria University of Wellington, The New Zealand Institute for the Study of Competition and Regulation.

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