Bridging the Gap: Where Cooperation is the Key to Inclusive Prosperity

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) launched the Bridging the Gap Report, highlighting the need for greater international, multilateral cooperation to close the digital divide and ensure all nations can benefit from digital economies. The report draws on an extensive global consultation with experts from multiple sectors and regions, that was undertaken by the DCO as part of its mission to empower member states to develop their digital economies and create prosperity and growth. Included in the report is an in-depth look at the challenges facing nations, especially smaller and developing nations, to gaining equal access to digital economies, and a review of some of the initiatives that are helping to bridge the digital divide. Bridging The Gap Report was compiled from a diverse range of original research and conversations, include a unique series of five round tables in five cities on five continents – Bangkok, Brussels, Kigali, New York, and Santiago – which brought together over 300 experts in development and technology to discuss the digital divide. A new survey of 1,000 businesses and consumers from 12 countries was conducted, as well as interviews with 37 digital economy experts and knowledge reviews of existing publications.