Human Development Report, 2001

 

Under favourable conditions, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can be powerful tools for increasing productivity, empowering marginalized groups, promoting dialogue among different stakeholders, improving the environment, and contributing to better education and healthcare for all. Despite consensus on the merit of ICT for development and poverty alleviation, few national and regional development policies and plans have integrated the use of ICTs as tools for development.

 

The debate on ICT has permanently shifted from ‘why’ use ICT for development to ‘how’ comprehensive and holistic ICT policies can unleash human potential and enhance people’s capacities to improve their lives. National governments play an important role in shaping national policies that enable the development and propagation of technologies that benefit citizens in the long run.

 

In this context, APDIP provides technical advice and support in formulating and implementing effective policies to harness the potential of ICTs for social, economic, political, and cultural development at the national level. At the same time, APDIP helps build capacities at the national and regional levels for greater public participation in global forums and decision-making processes.

 

Find out more about Policy Development and Dialogue: