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World Bank sets out digital access and jobs agenda for developing economies
A digital strategy announced on 20 October 2026 links affordable internet access, devices, digital skills and practical artificial intelligence to development and job creation.
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Four priorities in a new strategy
The World Bank Group unveiled its first digital strategy in Seoul on 20 October 2026. The plan combines work with governments and private investors around four connected goals: reliable internet connectivity, more affordable devices and data, stronger digital services and skills, and the foundations needed to use artificial intelligence.
The institution says its approach spans networks reaching homes, businesses and public facilities, including locations where electricity and connectivity must be developed together. It also highlights digital identity, payments and secure information exchange as possible building blocks for useful services.
The access and employment gap
The World Bank estimates that more than two billion people remained offline worldwide in 2025. It says internet use reached 23 percent in low-income countries, compared with 94 percent in high-income countries. Network coverage by itself does not ensure participation.
The Bank projects about 1.2 billion young people entering working age in developing countries over the next 10 to 15 years, against roughly 420 million jobs expected to be created. These are estimates, not an exact count of future unemployment.
A practical AI initiative
The World Bank also announced an AI Infrastructure and Readiness Initiative focused initially on Africa and Latin America. It describes shared, pay-as-you-go computing capacity as an alternative to each country building its own dedicated data centre.
Implementation will depend on country priorities, funding, procurement and whether services actually reach underserved communities. The October announcement establishes direction; it is not evidence that every proposed project has already been delivered.