IGF Women Summit

Bridging the gender digital divide is key to achieving universal, affordable and meaningful connectivity.  

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The latest data on gender digital inequality is staggering. Globally, 62% of men are using the Internet compared with 57% of women. In Africa, only 21 % of women have access to the Internet. The gender divide starts early as Internet use is four times greater for boys than for girls.

Women discussed several initiatives to address this digital inequality. 

For example, the Tech African Women Initiative — a collaboration between the UN Economic Commission for Africa and Better People —places a strong emphasis on women startups.  

Gender-based digital inclusion through capacity development projects for women and girls were encouraged. Developing cybersecurity frameworks that take into account women’s human rights online are crucial as women are often the victims of online abuse. 

Photo: Daniel Getachew/UN ECA