The first Digital Development Index (DDI) report, released with the UNDP, shows that over half of Pakistan’s people can’t use the internet.
But places doing well in digital tech also have better human development. Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore are leading in digital development.
The report finds that richer people have better access to digital tech than poorer people. Also, many women say their husbands or parents control their phones. This unequal access to digital tech is hurting Pakistan’s overall development.
This report was worked on together with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It’s part of a bigger report about human development in the country for the year 2024. That bigger report was released by Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
The government and UNDP want to bridge this digital gap. They believe focusing on digital tech can improve people’s lives and make Pakistan’s economy stronger. They aim to create a Pakistan where everyone can benefit from digital technology and become more prosperous.