Broadband plays a critical role in the workings of the economy and society. It connects consumers, businesses, and governments and facilitates social interaction. Hence, broadband policies are now a vital instrument to ensure the competitiveness of OECD countries and to address pressing societal concerns. This report examines broadband developments and policies, and highlights challenges such as connecting users to fibre-based networks or coverage of rural areas. It also outlines emerging issues that may need policy attention as we move to next-generation networks. The findings are also relevant to emerging and developing economies designing broadband strategies. About the authors: Taylor Reynolds works as economist and policy analyst in the OECD Information, Computer and Communications Policy Division. He analyses trends in information and communication technologies, policy and market structure, with a particular focus on broadband. His recent research has focused on the growth...
