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Spatiotemporal investigation of the digital divide, the case study of Iranian Provinces

Author

Listed:
  • Mohsen Roohani Qadikolaei

    (University of Guilan)

  • Nader Zali

    (University of Guilan)

  • Ali Soltani

    (University of South Australia
    Shiraz University)

Abstract

Many communities and territories in developing countries experience significant gaps in access to and use of information and communication technology (ICT), which is viewed as a major impediment to socioeconomic and health-related vulnerabilities. Geographic considerations, on the other hand, as well as variations in motivation for ICT usage and technology adoption within and across nations, as well as between cultures, have exacerbated the digital divide. This paper investigates disparities in access to and utilization of ICT in 31 Iranian provinces from 2011 to 2020. The research discovers evidence that family income and the number of R&D centers affected the formation of the digital divide, albeit the degree of the split has fluctuated through time and space. This study discovered that digital inequality is associated with social exclusion throughout Iranian regions, and it went on to try to better understand the underlying issues and potential solutions. In this regard, some policy avenues are suggested for government action, particularly for marginalized socioeconomic groups, such as the provision of infrastructure, training and skill augmentation, and the easing of digital services supplied by the government or private sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohsen Roohani Qadikolaei & Nader Zali & Ali Soltani, 2024. "Spatiotemporal investigation of the digital divide, the case study of Iranian Provinces," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 26(1), pages 869-884, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:endesu:v:26:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1007_s10668-022-02738-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02738-0
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    References listed on IDEAS

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