Development
Digital Divide
Definition
The gap between those with access to digital technology (internet, computers, smartphones) and those without — a major barrier to economic development.
Explanation
Over 2.5 billion people remain offline, concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The digital divide mirrors and reinforces economic inequality — offline populations miss e-commerce, digital banking, remote education, and information access. Mobile broadband has narrowed the gap faster than fixed broadband. Closing the divide could add $2T+ to global GDP.