In this session of the D4D Hub Gender & Digital Rights webinar series, the Digital for Development Hub brings together policymakers, development partners, the private sector, and civil society to explore how connectivity systems can become more inclusive and equitable. Access to the internet remains deeply unequal. Women in low- and middle-income countries are significantly less likely than men to use mobile internet, limiting their opportunities in education, employment, financial inclusion, and civic engagement. At the same time, structural barriers such as affordability, lack of devices, digital skills gaps, and online safety concerns continue to prevent millions of women from benefiting from digital transformation.
Community-led connectivity models are increasingly recognised as promising approaches to address these gaps. By placing communities at the centre of network design and governance, these models can expand access, strengthen digital rights, and create more inclusive digital ecosystems.
This webinar will explore how collaborative approaches among public institutions, civil society, and the private sector can advance inclusive connectivity while ensuring that women and marginalised communities can meaningfully participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
Join to discuss:
- The most persistent barriers preventing women from accessing and using mobile internet.
- How affordability, safety, cultural norms, and device access contribute to the gender digital divide.
- The potential of community-owned connectivity initiatives to strengthen digital inclusion and digital rights.
- Lessons from development partners, private sector actors, and civil society on expanding inclusive connectivity.
- Practical strategies to ensure women and marginalised communities benefit from digital transformation.
Speakers:
- Ariane Labat (TBC), Head of Unit for Digital Transformation, European Commission Directorate-General for International Partnerships
- Melle Groenestege, Senior Director for Connected Society, GSMA
- Laura María Sánchez, Social Professional specialising in alliance management in community networks, Colnodo
- Olga P. Paz Martinez, Administrative and Project Director, Colnodo
- Tanya Dreyer, Customer Service Lead, Fibertime.
