theguardian.com
Mobile Data Costs Inhibit Women Entrepreneurs in Developing Countries
High mobile data costs hinder 45% of women entrepreneurs in low- and middle-income countries from accessing the internet, limiting their business growth and contributing to a \$1.3 trillion potential GDP loss by 2030; solutions involve affordable mobile networks and stronger online safety measures.
- How do affordability issues related to mobile data intersect with safety concerns for women entrepreneurs using online platforms, and what are the broader societal implications?
- The high cost of internet access disproportionately affects women entrepreneurs in developing countries, limiting their participation in the digital economy and widening the gender gap. This is despite 92% owning smartphones. The affordability issue is particularly acute in sub-Saharan Africa, where internet access is among the least affordable globally. This digital divide prevents women from leveraging e-commerce platforms and other online business tools.
- What is the primary obstacle preventing many female entrepreneurs in developing countries from fully participating in the digital economy, and what are its immediate consequences?
- High mobile data costs prevent 45% of women entrepreneurs in low- and middle-income countries from accessing the internet regularly, hindering their business growth and digital inclusion. Many use affordable apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, but wider internet access remains too expensive. This lack of access limits their ability to reach customers, streamline operations, and increase sales, impacting their economic contributions.
- What are the long-term economic and social consequences of inaction on improving internet access and digital safety for women in developing countries, and what innovative solutions could address this?
- To bridge the digital gender gap and unlock significant economic potential, developing countries must invest in affordable mobile data networks. Simultaneously, tech companies need to strengthen safety measures on their platforms, addressing online harassment and abuse which disproportionately affects women. Failure to do so will exacerbate existing inequalities and hinder women's economic advancement. The potential GDP increase of \$1.3 trillion by 2030 highlights the enormous economic opportunity at stake.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue primarily from the perspective of the challenges faced by women, which is understandable given the report's focus. However, this framing could unintentionally downplay the efforts being made to address these issues or the successes achieved by some women entrepreneurs. The headline, if there were one, would likely emphasize the cost barrier.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs due to cost and safety concerns related to internet access. While it mentions the positive aspects of digital inclusion and the potential economic benefits, it doesn't delve into initiatives or programs that are already working to address these challenges or examples of successful female entrepreneurs who have overcome these obstacles. This omission could leave the reader with a somewhat pessimistic and incomplete view of the situation.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it could benefit from exploring a wider range of solutions beyond just focusing on reduced costs and improved safety measures. The challenges are complex and multifaceted, and presenting only a limited set of solutions could oversimplify the problem.
Sustainable Development Goals
Improving internet access for women entrepreneurs can significantly boost their income and contribute to poverty reduction. The report highlights the substantial economic potential unlocked by bridging the digital gender gap, estimating a potential $1.3tn GDP increase in developing countries.