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1、 POLICY BRIEF LEVERAGING DIGITALIZATION TO FOSTER SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN LLDCs May 2024 Section on Sustainable Development and Countries in Special Situation,Office of the Executive Secretary 2 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs Acknowledgements:This policy brie

2、f was prepared by Daniel Hubertus Wilhelmus Mari Bruning and Nyingtob Pema Norbu and benefited from feedback and suggestions by Yusuke Tateno,Section on Sustainable Development and Countries in Special Situations,ESCAP.Document support was provided by Darin Sooksripaisarnkit.Disclaimer:The designati

3、ons employed and the presentation of the material in this policy brief do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning the legal status of any country,territory,city or area,or of its authorities,or concerning the delimitation of

4、its frontiers or boundaries.Where the designation“country or area”appears,it covers countries,territories,cities or areas.Bibliographical and other references have,wherever possible,been verified.The United Nations bears no responsibility for the availability or functioning of URLs.The opinions,figu

5、res and estimates set forth in this publication should not necessarily be considered as reflecting the views or carrying the endorsement of the United Nations.The mention of firm names and commercial products does not imply the endorsement of the United Nations.Please cite this paper as:Please cite

6、this paper as:Daniel Hubertus Wilhelmus Mari Bruning and Nyingtob Pema Norbu(2024).Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs.CSS Policy Briefs No.24-2.Bangkok:ESCAP.For further information on this policy brief,please address your enquiries to:Oliver Paddison Chief,Section

7、on Sustainable Development and Countries in Special Situations Office of the Executive Secretary Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific(ESCAP)Email:escap-cssun.org Photo credit:iStock 672310452 Tracking number:ESCAP/PB/543 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development

8、in LLDCs ABSTRACTABSTRACT Digitalization offers a significant opportunity for sustainable development in landlocked developing countries(LLDCs)in Asia and the Pacific,helping them overcome geographic and infrastructural barriers.This brief discusses how digital technologies can expand access to glob

9、al markets,boost entrepreneurship,and improve essential services like mobile banking and telemedicine,which are crucial for economic growth and societal advancement.It emphasizes the need for continued government involvement in expanding infrastructure and refining regulations to maximize the benefi

10、ts of the digital economy,ensuring that growth is inclusive and equitable across these regions.4 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs 1.1.I INTRODUCTIONNTRODUCTION Digitalization presents a transformative opportunity for landlocked developing countries(LLDCs)to overco

11、me traditional infrastructure,geographical,and trade barriers,thereby supporting their developmental objectives.Government interventions have been instrumental in driving the digital transformation of LLDCs,especially those in North and Central Asia.Infrastructure expansion in particular,has resulte

12、d in affordable access to broadband services and a significant amount in mobile broadband subscriptions(figure 1)surpassing the other countries in special situations.1 This has placed LLDCs in a position to embrace innovation and accelerate socioeconomic development by accessing new digital tools an

13、d global markets,fostering job creation and facilitating essential services such as mobile banking and telemedicine.However,despite the establishment of an affordable and robust digital infrastructure,sustained efforts in regulatory refinement and infrastructure expansion are imperative to fully unl

14、ock the potential of the digital economy while 1 The countries in special situations are a group of developing countries confronted by deep structural impediments to attaining sustainable development.They include least developed countries,landlocked developing countries and small islands developing

15、States.effectively managing its inherent risks.This is particularly crucial for the LLDCs where addressing rural-urban disparities is paramount in preventing the widening of skill gaps and exacerbating social inequalities.Additionally,strategic regulatory advancements,coupled with targeted initiativ

16、es and regional collaboration,are needed to empower nations to capitalize on emerging economic opportunities and attract foreign investments,thereby serving as catalysts for the continual growth of the digital sector and harnessing the full benefits of digitalization.Accordingly,this policy brief ai

17、ms to highlight the potential of digitalization in LLDCs in Asia and the Pacific.It approaches this by analysing the current situation and challenges within this domain and providing pertinent policy recommendations to address them and further capitalize on the benefits of digitalisation.Figure 1:Fi

18、gure 1:Access to fixed and mobile broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants,Access to fixed and mobile broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants,weighted averages,in Asiaweighted averages,in Asia-Pacific countries in special situationsPacific countries in special situations Sources:ITU,World Tel

19、ecommunications and ICT Indicators Database,26th edition 5 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs 2.2.OPPORTUNITIESOPPORTUNITIES LLDCs are poised to seize the transformative opportunities presented by digitalization.This section explores how digital innovations can driv

20、e sustainable development and economic growth in LLDCs,unlocking their full potential in the global digital economy.Effectively embracing of Effectively embracing of digitalization can offer digitalization can offer significant economic opportunities by opening significant economic opportunities by

21、opening doors to global markets,fostering doors to global markets,fostering entrepreneurship,and revolutionizing essential entrepreneurship,and revolutionizing essential service delivery.service delivery.Advancements in digital technologies and communications has greatly increased the trade potentia

22、l of LLDCs.For instance,in the service sector,IT services,online education,and telemedicine can now reach global audiences without physical presence.This shift is further accelerated by digital platforms that provide equal access to global markets,encouraging entrepreneurship and employment growth.T

23、his is particularly advantageous for the remote,rural regions of LLDCs,where it enables economies of scale.Additionally,the emergence of global freelancing platforms offers new avenues for LLDC workers,while online marketplaces and social media empower artisans to exhibit their products globally.Thi

24、s not only increases income but also reduces reliance on traditional middlemen and offers a path for LLDCs to expand their footprint in business services exports.Moreover,digital technologies are revolutionizing the provision of essential services such as mobile banking,online education,and telemedi

25、cine.These cost-effective solutions are crucial for countries in special situations as it enables the provision of efficient and accessible services essential for their progress and development.Nepals efforts in developing a comprehensive digital policy serves as a prime example of harnessing this d

26、igital potential to spur economic growth,address social challenges,and enhance global integration.With a strategic focus on ICT skill development and leveraging high internet penetration and smartphone usage,Nepal has embarked on over 80 digital initiatives spanning crucial sectors such as digital f

27、oundation,agriculture,health,education,energy,tourism,finance,and urban infrastructure.These initiatives aim to provide online market access,particularly benefiting local entrepreneurship such as Nepalese artisans,while meeting global demands and stimulating domestic innovation.Nepals proactive appr

28、oach underscores its commitment to leveraging digital technologies as catalysts for inclusive economic development and positioning itself competitively in the global economy(ESCAP,2024).Harnessing digital tools strategically can Harnessing digital tools strategically can significantly boost producti

29、vity and foster the significantly boost productivity and foster the creation of quality employment opportunities.creation of quality employment opportunities.These technologies offer advantages that enhance efficiency,safety,and transparency across various sectors.This is particularly crucial for LL

30、DCs,where mining and commodity exports play a substantial role in the economy.Digital solutions,such as advanced mapping software and machine automation,have revolutionized industries like mining in LLDCs,leading to heightened efficiency,reliability,and cost-effectiveness.For instance,in Kazakhstan,

31、where mining contributes 13%to the GDP,the adoption of digital tools has enabled the sector to adapt to increasingly complex and competitive conditions.Statistics indicate a remarkable 38.9%increase in labour productivity growth within the Mining industry and quarrying sector in 2022 compared to 201

32、6,highlighting the transformative impact of digitalization.By embracing digital technologies strategically,LLDCs can unlock new avenues for economic growth and competitiveness while ensuring sustainable development(Mukanov,2023).6 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs

33、3.3.CHALLENGESCHALLENGES LLDCs in the Asia-Pacific region are confronted by formidable challenges as they endeavour to embrace digitalization.Understanding and addressing these challenges is essential for crafting effective policies and strategies that will enable LLDCs to navigate the digital lands

34、cape successfully.In LLDCs across Asia and the Pacific,ensuring In LLDCs across Asia and the Pacific,ensuring universal connectivity presents a multifaceted universal connectivity presents a multifaceted challenge.challenge.Factors such as low population density and rugged terrains render the laying

35、 of fiber-optic cables economically unviable in many regions.Consequently,inhabitants of remote rural areas often rely on lower-quality Internet infrastructure with limited bandwidth and speed,hampering their access to digital services(Internet Society,2018).Disparities in bandwidth connectivity and

36、 quality exacerbate the digital divide,potentially deepening inequalities between income groups and rural and urban region.Higher-income individuals are more likely to access and afford superior digital services,potentially creating a digital divide that disproportionately affects those in rural or

37、underdeveloped sectors.LLDCs frequently face financial constraints LLDCs frequently face financial constraints hindering their developmental progress.hindering their developmental progress.These countries heavily rely on public resources,which have often fallen short in meeting their diverse needs.A

38、dditionally,limited private sector investment,including Foreign Direct Investment(FDI),persists due to restrictive domestic policies and the prevalence of State-owned enterprises.This poses a significant challenge,considering the substantial benefits that such investments could bring,particularly in

39、 infrastructure development.Unlocking private sector participation could alleviate fiscal pressures and lead to valuable outcomes such as skill enhancement,technology transfer,and efficiency improvements(Meng,Tateno,&Norbu,2022).There remains a notable There remains a notable absence of regional abs

40、ence of regional collaboration,particularly concerning collaboration,particularly concerning interoperability and digitalization,despite their interoperability and digitalization,despite their potential for socioeconomic advancement.potential for socioeconomic advancement.The transport sector stands

41、 out as a prime area where cooperation could yield substantial benefits.LLDCs in Asia and the Pacific exhibit notable deficiencies in this domain,highlighting connectivity challenges(figure 2).Nonetheless,during the pandemic,LLDCs,especially in North and Central Asia,showcased their resilience by st

42、reamlining transport operations and simplifying customs procedures to expedite the movement of essential goods.Extending these digital initiatives to broader cargo supplies has the potential to significantly enhance transport connectivity and efficiency.Moreover,fostering cooperation can assist coun

43、tries in establishing themselves as dependable partners for international freight transport,thereby unlocking opportunities for international trade(ESCAP,2023).The rapid expansion and use of digital technologies The rapid expansion and use of digital technologies in LLDCs across Asia and the Pacific

44、 brings with it in LLDCs across Asia and the Pacific brings with it myriad risks.myriad risks.The informal economy in particular is susceptible to risks as digital platforms can exacerbate exploitation,offering unfair wages,scant job security,and limited social security benefits.Insufficient digital

45、 literacy also poses a looming threat of personal data exploitation and privacy breaches.Moreover,overreliance on specific digital platforms heightens vulnerabilities,magnifying the impact of policy shifts or fee adjustments imposed by these platforms.This is especially worrisome since cybersecurity

46、 readiness varies significantly among LLDCs in the region with only a fraction of LLDCs enacting data protection legislation,and overall cybersecurity readiness remaining a concern(ESCAP,2024).Where countries like Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan demonstrate strong performances,several other LLDCs like Tur

47、kmenistan,Tajikistan and Bhutan rank very low on the Global Cybersecurity Index(table 1).Efforts to bolster cybersecurity and bridge the digital divide are imperative to protect the interests and safety of LLDCs in the face of rapid digitalization and increased interconnectivity between countries.7

48、Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs These challenges underscore the need for comprehensive strategies and collaborative efforts to address infrastructure limitations,bridge the digital divide,unlock investments and ensure the safe use of digital services to achieve t

49、he full transformative potential of digital technologies in the region.Figure 2.ESCAP transport connectivity index,as a percentage of the highest Figure 2.ESCAP transport connectivity index,as a percentage of the highest performers score,for selected Asiaperformers score,for selected Asia-Pacific co

50、untriesPacific countries Source:(ESCAP,2019)Note:The blue bars represent the LLDCs,and the brown bars represent other countries in Asia and the Pacific Table 1 GlobalyTable 1 Globaly Cybersecurity Index Scores 2020Cybersecurity Index Scores 2020 AsiaAsia-Pacific LLDCsPacific LLDCs GCI 2020 ScoreGCI

51、2020 Score Kazakhstan 93.15 Azerbaijan 89.31 Uzbekistan 71.11 Armenia 50.57 Kyrgyzstan 49.64 Nepal 44.99 Mongolia 26.2 Lao P.D.R.20.34 Bhutan 18.34 Tajikistan 17.1 Turkmenistan 14.48 Source:International Telecommunications Union(ITU),(2021)8 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable developmen

52、t in LLDCs 4.4.POLICY RECOMMENDATIONPOLICY RECOMMENDATION In the realm of digitalization,Asian LLDCs hold immense potential for growth and development.This section offers targeted policy recommendations to harness this potential effectively.Through strategic initiatives like bolstering digital infra

53、structure,modernizing trade and economic regulations and fostering regional cooperation,LLDCs can navigate the digital landscape to drive inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.To unlock the full potential of digitalization in To unlock the full potential of digitalization in LLDCs ac

54、ross AsiaLLDCs across Asia-Pacific,strategic policies should Pacific,strategic policies should prioritize expanding digital and prioritize expanding digital and telecommunications infrastructure,including telecommunications infrastructure,including ensuring reliable electricity and robust internet e

55、nsuring reliable electricity and robust internet connectivity in rural areconnectivity in rural areas.as.These initiatives,along with implementing skill development programs,are crucial for overcoming the geographical and infrastructural challenges inherent to LLDCs.They ensure equitable access to d

56、igital technologies and the socio-economic benefits they bring.Enhancing digital literacy is paramount.Initiatives like the Asian and Pacific Training Centre for Information and Communication Technology for Development(APCICT)provide capacity-building programmes and e-learning courses to train gover

57、nment officials.Additionally,governments of LLDCs should implement programmes to teach digital literacy to primary and secondary school children and teachers,thus advancing the ongoing digital transformation in the region.Additionally,it becomes increasingly crucial to enhance individuals fundamenta

58、l comprehension of effectively managing and securely sharing digital data.This stands as a foundational requirement for digital advancement.LLDCs must thus also establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks concerning data privacy,protection,information security,trust,and cybersecurity.These policie

59、s not only bridge the digital divide but also foster sustainable development through improving access to education,and economic opportunities in geographically disadvantaged regions.Targeted government initiatives,such as GIGA(Box 1)and other skill development programs,play a pivotal role in equippi

60、ng individuals with the necessary digital skills to thrive in the digital economy.Its essential to mitigate skill divides and provide equal opportunities for all,especially targeting rural areas.Box 1.Box 1.The Giga Initiative,launched in 2019 by UNICEF and the International Telecommunication Union(

61、ITU),aims to connect every school to broadband internet,promoting digital learning.Operating in 30 countries,including four Asian LLDCs,Giga offers open-source connectivity solutions and technical assistance for school mapping,infrastructure planning,and connectivity monitoring.In KazakhstanKazakhst

62、an,despite national procurement challenges,Giga partnered with the local government to extend high-speed internet to 38 remote schools,prompting advocacy for regulatory reforms.In KyrgyzstanKyrgyzstan,Gigas solutions led to reduced internet costs and doubled connection speeds nationwide.In Uzbekista

63、nUzbekistan,Giga pioneers innovative financing models,such as schools-as-hubs,where schools generate revenue by providing internet access to surrounding communities.The Giga Initiative exemplifies a progressive approach to bridging the digital divide in education through technological advancement,re

64、gulatory reform,and innovative business models.Sources:UNICEF and ITU(n.d.).Giga Connect every school to the Internet;UNICEF and ITU(2023a).Giga Annual Report 2022;and UNICEF and ITU(2023b).Giga expands its reach to 30 countries,advancing universal school connectivity.9 November 2023.9 Leveraging di

65、gitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs The global surge in digital trade offers LLDCs in The global surge in digital trade offers LLDCs in AsiaAsia-Pacific a transformative opportunity for Pacific a transformative opportunity for development;nonetheless,the implementation of develop

66、ment;nonetheless,the implementation of updated economic and trade policies is imperative updated economic and trade policies is imperative to overcome the barriers to full participation.to overcome the barriers to full participation.Domestically,LLDCs record limited involvement in e-commerce,undersc

67、oring the need for tailored governmental initiatives to stimulate digital business activities,mirroring the proactive stance of Nepal.Furthermore,numerous LLDCs have yet to embed digital trade stipulations(DTPs)into their preferential trade agreements(PTAs),hindering the seamless facilitation of dig

68、ital trade,a vital component for cross-border e-commerce.To confront these obstacles,a comprehensive strategy emphasizing legal and technical enhancements is paramount.LLDCs can refine their regulatory frameworks by aligning with established international norms and instruments established by bodies

69、like the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law(UNCITRAL)and the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business(UN/CEFACT).This alignment fosters the harmonization of electronic trade data and document exchange regulations,thereby streamlining cross-border digital

70、 transactions.Additionally,undertaking the revision of their trade pacts to modernize existing measures and include digital components are important measures.Moreover,capitalizing on public-private partnerships(PPPs)for technological advancements and augmenting digital foreign direct investment(FDI)

71、are crucial for cultivating the digital economy.Policies aimed at bolstering the digital skills workforce,easing regulatory burdens on businesses through the liberalization of ownership and licensing regulations,and fostering a conducive environment for digital enterprises are imperative to attract

72、more digital FDI.Understanding and addressing the impact of the predominance of state-owned enterprises and dependence on public investments is also 2 The AP-IS platform,a region-wide intergovernmental initiative,strives to bridge the digital gap and expedite digital evolution in the Asia Pacific re

73、gion by fostering policy dialogues,mobilizing cooperation,sharing knowledge and technology,conducting research,and enhancing capacity building among member States(ESCAP,n.d.).important.Cooperation plays a crucial role in establishing Cooperation plays a crucial role in establishing digital infrastru

74、cture and utilizing digitalization for digital infrastructure and utilizing digitalization for trade and investment among LLDCs.trade and investment among LLDCs.By collaborating,governments and stakeholders can streamline digital standards and regulatory frameworks,thereby reducing barriers to digit

75、al trade and investment and enhancing digital infrastructure connectivity and skills for all citizens.It is essential for such collaborations to also consider the financial sustainability and environmental impact of new ICT network infrastructure projects.The Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway(AP

76、-IS)exemplifies such efforts,aiming to enhance regional connectivity and digital integration.2 Through initiatives like the AP-IS,best practices are exchanged,and digital skills are promoted.The latest action plan,extending until 2026,serves as a regional roadmap for further cooperative endeavors in

77、 bridging the digital divide and accelerating digital transformation.Additionally,regional and subregional cooperation present strategic opportunities for LLDCs to enhance their trade engagement.Digital trade collaboration endeavors should prioritize provisions that offer specialized assistance to m

78、icro,small,and medium-sized enterprises(MSMEs),facilitate capacity-building initiatives,and facilitate the transfer of digital technologies.These measures are crucial for fostering an inclusive digital trade environment that not only addresses immediate challenges but also contributes to long-term p

79、roductivity and job creation.By ensuring compatibility across countries and integrating differential treatment between LLDCs,the region can progress towards a more integrated and inclusive digital trade framework.In particular the emergence of the Middle Corridor for goods transport between Asia and

80、 Europe presents numerous opportunities.Accordingly,regional cooperation is indispensable in leveraging opportunities arising from the digital 10 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs transformation in areas such as transport connectivity as well.The Trans-Asian Rail N

81、etwork,while expanding regional partnerships,requires the development of regulatory frameworks and interoperability to maximize its potential.Harmonizing traffic management,streamlining rail business processes,and enhancing cross-border rail infrastructure and information exchange through digitaliza

82、tion are crucial steps in vastly improving the transportation experience.Additionally,scaling up transport multimodality,especially between the Trans-Asian Rail Network and Dry Ports,can provide competitive long-distance connections,fortifying international transport and leading to tangible economic

83、 benefits for countries across the region.By establishing themselves as reliable transport partners,LLDCs in North Central Asia in particular,can catalyze economic development,attract foreign investment,and increase global involvement,thereby leading to economic advantages for the regions countries.

84、11 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs 5.WAY FORWARD:Vienna Programme of ActionWAY FORWARD:Vienna Programme of Action The current Vienna Programme of Action for LLDCs,spanning from 2014 to 2024,crafted in the early 2010s,had limited emphasis on digitalization and inn

85、ovation.Nonetheless,it acknowledged the pivotal role of digital infrastructure in empowering LLDCs to partake in the global digital economy.The Programme advocated for initiatives like digital bridges to ensure affordable broadband and internet services,thereby fostering digital inclusion and connec

86、tivity.It underscored the significance of partnerships between LLDCs,transit countries,development partners,and the private sector to mobilize resources and implement tailored digital solutions.Contrastingly,the forthcoming programme of action for LLDCs,slated to be adopted in 2024,is expected to pr

87、ioritize digital connectivity and transformation.The Euro-Asia regional final review of the Vienna Programme of Action highlighted digitalization as a key opportunity,particularly noting the dynamism of digital trade in services in facilitating LLDCs international trade participation.There was a cal

88、l for LLDCs to establish supportive frameworks for leveraging the digital economy,urging increased technical support from development and transit partners and UN entities.Central to this focus is the development of both hard and soft ICT infrastructure,accompanied by legal frameworks and policies to

89、 bolster ICT advancement.Enhancing digital literacy,promoting inclusion,and fostering the adoption of ICT applications and services are critical in bridging the digital divide.These efforts are imperative for overcoming geographical and infrastructural challenges,enhancing LLDCs competitiveness,and

90、facilitating their integration into the global economy.12 Leveraging digitalization to foster sustainable development in LLDCs REFERENCE ESCAP.(2024).Asia-Pacific countries with special needs development report 2024 Leveraging digitalization for productivity and decent employment.Bangkok:ESCAP._(202

91、3).Asia-Pacific countries with special needs development report 2023 Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Seamless and Sustainable Connectivity.Bangkok:ESCAP._(n.d.).ICT and Disaster Risk Reduction The Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway Platform._(2019).Review of Sustainable Transport Connectiv

92、ity in Asia and the Pacific 2019:Addressing the challenges for Freight Transport.Bangkok:ESCAP.International Telecommunications Union(ITU).(2021).Global Cybersecurity Index 2020.Geneva:ITU.Internet Society.(2018).Internet Crossing Borders:Boosting the Internet in Landlocked Developing Countries.Inte

93、rnet Society.Meng,C.,Tateno,Y.,&Norbu,N.(2022).Financing Infrastructure Connectivity in Landlocked Developing Countries for Sustainable Recovery from COVID-19 and Beyond.Bangkok:ESCAP.Mukanov,A.(2023).The main indicators of the state program Digital Kazakhstan.InterConf,25-38.UNICEF and ITU.(n.d.).Giga Connect every school to the Internet._(2023a).Giga Annual Report 2022._(2023b,November 9).Giga expands its reach to 30 countries,advancing universal school connectivity.TABLE 1TABLE 1 www.unescap.org