Pluralities in most emerging economies believe government should ensure equal internet access

Internet use is rising in emerging economies, but access to fast, reliable service remains elusive to many living in these nations. What role should the government play in getting all residents digitally connected? A median of 65% across 11 emerging economies say it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to reliable internet service. Smaller shares – three-in-ten – say this should not be the responsibility of the government. In seven of 11 nations, internet-using adults are more likely than non-internet users to believe the government has a responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to reliable internet. But even as half or more of adults across these nations say the government should be responsible for ensuring internet access, there is less consensus on whether this should be a top priority. Among those who say the government has a responsibility to ensure equal access to the internet, an 11-country median of 44% believe this should be one of the government’s top priorities. But a larger share – a median of 55% – say it should just be one of the many things the government focuses on.