Recs
developed by MCIT and the World Bank. Given the increasing prevalence of mobile
phones, ensure Government data displays are user-friendly and mobile-friendly.
Consult publically with civil society and business to identify high-value data that
catalyses innovation, enhances social policy, and promotes public and private sector
accountability.
7. Accelerate the implementation of Myanmar’s universal
service commitments.
Until recently, Myanmar was at the bottom of the global league table for Internet and
mobile phone penetration. While penetration rates are increasing rapidly, it may take
years to reach all of Myanmar’s population, particularly in rural areas. The Government
tentatively committed to a universal service agreement with the current
telecommunications operators, which called for each operator to contribute 2% of annual
revenue to a universal service fund managed by MCIT, beginning after three years of
successfully meeting network rollout targets. Myanmar has also joined the Alliance for
Affordable Internet (AFAI). All parties can play a role in accelerating the roll out of
services using innovative solutions so that a wider percentage of the population benefits
from accessing ICTs. (See Chapter 3 on Sector Impacts for further information).
Key Points for Implementation
Publically disclose the current national rollout requirements for operators,
compared with their current progress.
Build on lessons learned in the World Bank supported programme of extending
connectivity to rural areas.
Develop a Universal Service Strategy, as a first step in the implementation of
Chapter XV of the 2013 Telecommunications Law. Consult widely, including with
ethnic minorities and disadvantaged groups such as people with disabilities, to identify
priority areas for the rollout of telecommunications service (both mobile and fixed line
broadband service), for inclusion in the Universal Service Strategy and Fund.
Clarify how the Universal Service Fund will support Myanmar’s commitment to the
Alliance for Affordable Internet, which is focused on realising entry-level broadband
priced at less than 5% of monthly income, particularly in rural communities
Consider allocating Universal Service Funds to support community-based
telecommunications networks and provide wireless spectrum concessions to remote
rural communities where telecommunications service is currently inaccessible. This
will help promote the development of low-cost community-based telecommunications
networks for last mile or last inch connectivity.
8. Improve digital literacy of users and send clear signals
about respectful use of ICT’s.
To realise the range of transformative positive impacts via ICT growth and development in
Myanmar, the Government must ensure that all Myanmar’s population can participate in
Myanmar’s growing information society. Those services must be used respectfully so that
violence and discrimination happening offline are not magnified and intensified online.
This requires strong signals from opinion-formers, including Government. Engagement
with ICTs is still a completely new experience for the majority of Myanmar people. There
is also a need for efforts from Government, business and civil society to provide
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RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT OF MYANMAR