Bangladesh Lags in Digital Race as Bhutan and Myanmar Advance
A recent survey by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reveals that only 53.4% of Bangladesh's total population uses the internet. This means that approximately five out of every ten people in the country remain offline. The ITU's findings highlight a significant digital divide within Bangladesh. While the nation aims for digital advancement, a substantial portion of its citizens are not yet connected. This situation places Bangladesh behind countries like Bhutan and Myanmar in the global digital race. The low internet penetration rate raises concerns about equitable access to information and digital services for all citizens. Addressing this gap is crucial for Bangladesh to achieve its digital transformation goals and ensure inclusive growth in the increasingly connected world.
The ITU data indicates a significant digital inclusion challenge for Bangladesh, with over 46% of the population lacking internet access. This disparity could hinder economic development, educational opportunities, and access to essential services, particularly for rural and lower-income segments. While striving for digital progress, Bangladesh faces the systemic challenge of ensuring widespread and affordable connectivity. Future policy must focus on infrastructure expansion and digital literacy programs to bridge this gap, fostering a more equitable digital future. The comparative lag with Bhutan and Myanmar suggests potential structural impediments in Bangladesh's digital strategy that warrant re-evaluation to accelerate progress.
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