The gains from digital transformation are currently unevenly distributed. As our world becomes increasingly digital and essential services shift to digital channels, not everyone has access to the benefits of digitalization. A significant portion of the global population and MSMEs remains offline and many of those who have access are not connected in a meaningful way that allows them to access digital services or participate in the digital economy because of a lack of digital literacy, subpar Internet connectivity, and a lack of relevant services, among other barriers. The UPU’s global network of over 650,000 post offices is strategically positioned to reach unconnected and under-connected people and businesses, especially in rural and remote areas where a majority of post offices are located. The UPU launched the CONNECT.POST initiative at the end of 2022 seeking to leverage digitally connected postal infrastructure to advance inclusive digital transformations and contribute to addressing these challenges. CONNECT.POST aims to achieve these goals by:
Expanding high-speed internet access to all post offices and the communities they serve by 2030, extending connectivity to underserved areas Providing public access to digital services and skills training Supporting digital and in-person access to e-government, e-commerce, and digital financial services at post offices, ensuring inclusion for all
After significant progress, working closely with partners like the .POST Group and the Caribbean Telecommunication Union, we will take stock of what has been accomplished so far to best inform the plan for 2025 to maximize the contribution of the initiative towards the SDGs and the overarching Leave No One Behind agenda. The online moderator will facilitate the interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees. Online survey tools will be used to enhanced both onsite and online participation, e.g. Mentimeter
Open Zoom
