Digital divide – inequalities in level of implementation of new information and telecommunication technologies. Cross country study.

Abstract

In the paper presented, the author considers few aspects of the so-called “digital divide”. It is easily noticeable worldwide, that new information and communication technologies (ICTs) “possess” a great ability to spread, at high pace, among countries from all around the world. At the same time, we can see that ICTs are being implemented at different pace in difference economies. Different pace of ICTs implementation generates significant inequalities in level of usage and application of these technologies in different countries. The main purpose of the paper is to assess magnitude of existing digital divides among countries, which can partly explain existing inequalities in use and application of ICTs. The author will apply relevant methodology – taken from basic taxonomy methodology – to measure the digital divides among economies. All countries where necessary data is available and reliable will be included in the study