Internet Society and Meta Unite to Enhance Global Internet Connectivity with New Initiative

Internet Society and Meta Unite to Enhance Global Internet Connectivity

As leaders in mobile technology convene at the prestigious Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the Internet Society has made a groundbreaking announcement regarding its partnership with Meta. This collaboration aims to tackle the pressing issue of global internet connectivity by announcing a new Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative, backed by a notable investment of $30 million to be directed towards enhancing affordable and reliable internet access worldwide through 2030.

The Internet Society, a global charitable organization, has dedicated itself to championing an open, secure, and connected internet. Only recently, it was reported that approximately 2.6 billion people across the globe still lack basic internet access, missing out on essential opportunities in education, health care, economic growth, and civic participation. The new initiative not only highlights the dire need for action but also proposes a comprehensive strategy to bridge this vast connectivity gap.

As the first co-funding partner in this initiative, Meta aims to mobilize additional collaborators to join this vital cause. The extended partnership builds on the existing fruitful cooperation between the two organizations, which has seen significant development in Internet Exchange Point (IXP) infrastructure and technical training efforts in various countries since 2018. The previous collaboration has already led to the establishment of 56 IXPs in 45 nations, dramatically improving internet speed and reliability for millions of users.

The Objectives of the Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative

The Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative will focus on five key areas designed to make a lasting impact:

1. Increasing Funding and Advocacy: Investing in infrastructure projects and empowering local communities to manage their networks independently.
2. Addressing Market Gaps: Targeting areas where commercial providers currently see no viable business case, ensuring equitable access to digital resources.
3. Enhancing Training: Developing training programs aimed at building technical skills in marginalized communities, thus creating the internet leaders of tomorrow.
4. Improving Community-Centered Solutions: Developing last-mile solutions for underserved areas, including support for local businesses, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
5. Building Sustainable Networks: Promoting locally owned, scalable, and sustainable networks that can generate jobs and foster entrepreneurship within communities.

Sally Wentworth, President and CEO of the Internet Society, emphasized that this initiative is not just about technological advancements but also about ensuring that those previously excluded have the opportunity to participate meaningfully in the digital society. “This initiative, supported by Meta, exemplifies collective action that can offer substantial internet access improvements for over two billion individuals currently lacking reliable connectivity. We are hopeful that this fund becomes instrumental in narrowing the digital divide,” Wentworth stated.

Aaron Russell, Director of Edge Network Infrastructure at Meta, echoed this sentiment by reaffirming their commitment to bridging this digital divide. Through this collaboration, they aim to empower communities globally with not just internet access but also the resources to innovate and grow within their local ecosystems, emphasizing sustainable development.

Conclusion

As the Internet Society and Meta gear up to deploy their new Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative, both organizations remain committed to addressing one of the greatest challenges of our time. By fostering partnerships, promoting education, and advocating for infrastructure development, the initiative aims to create a more equitable and connected world. With a target to mobilize support from more partners, both organizations see a path toward economic relief and enhanced civic engagement for the underserved populations around the globe. More information on this initiative will be available on the Internet Society's website as the program unfolds.

For further details on the Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative, visit Internet Society.