ICT Policy Formulation and e-Strategy Development: A ... - un-apcict

Foreword
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are now widely accepted by developing
countries as a critical tool in their efforts to eradicate poverty, enhance human development,
and achieve Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Recognizing this untapped potential,
infrastructure initiatives and development strategies incorporating ICT are being increasingly
promoted and launched across the Asia-Pacific.
While the potential advantages of ICT for Development (ICT4D) are enormous, national policies
are yet to adequately reflect truly comprehensive and integrated strategies for harnessing and
exploiting this potential. Much mention has been made of a growing digital divide between
countries. However, just as technology and knowledge gaps need to be bridged between
countries, the increasing information and technology gap within countries also requires critical
attention. There is, perhaps, a directly attributable link between growing inequality within
nations and the intra-national digital and information divide.
This Guidebook, part of the ICT4D series produced by the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) through its Asia-Pacific Development Information Programme (APDIP), is
designed to provide policy-makers the necessary tools, information and knowledge to facilitate
the formulation and adoption of ICT policies and strategies. Through the examination of vital
sectors and case study analysis of applied policies and strategies implemented in the Asia-
Pacific region, this publication provides tangible examples and lessons for policy-makers and
practitioners involved in the field.
The debate on ICT has permanently shifted from ‘why’ ICT for Development, to ‘how’
comprehensive and holistic ICT policies can unleash human potential and enhance people’s
capabilities to improve their lives. Sound ICT policies that are truly pro-poor must be an
indispensable part of national development strategies.
We hope this Guidebook and the entire series will positively contribute to assisting policymakers
in moving forward on this agenda.
Hafiz Pasha
UN Assistant Secretary-General
UNDP Assistant Administrator
Director, Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific
ICT Policy Formulation and e-Strategy Development
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