Description
The work examines mobile access, adoption and usage among persons with disabilities across 14 low- and middle-income countries. The findings show that persons with disabilities remain disproportionately excluded at every stage of the mobile internet user journey—from awareness of mobile internet, to ownership of internet‑enabled devices, to daily and diverse digital engagement. Key barriers include limited digital skills, the high cost of devices (especially smartphones), lack of relevant content or services, and safety and security concerns. The report also highlights the heightened exclusion faced by women with disabilities and persons with disabilities living in rural areas. It concludes with targeted recommendations for policymakers, mobile operators and ecosystem actors to reduce the mobile disability gap and foster a more inclusive digital environment.
Subject (according to the ISO classification of assistive products)
- Multifunctional communication systems (ISO 22.24.04)
- Accessories for assistive products for distant communication (ISO 22.24.21)
