Improving Resilience of Broadband Networks During Future Crises

In October 2021, Vernonburg Group prepared a report entitled “Connect2Recover: A methodology for identifying connectivity gaps and strengthening resilience in the new normal” for the International Telecommunication Union. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear how essential broadband access is to everyday life. The report therefore provides a methodology for identifying gaps and bottlenecks at the country level that hamper the utilization of broadband networks technologies and digital technologies to respond to and mitigate the consequences of the pandemic.

The report first details a procedure for stress tests on operator networks that countries can perform to check their level of resilience. Then, it describes digital technologies and tools (including connectivity devices, applications, and services) that can be used to increase resilience to future pandemics. After giving an overview of government and private sector initiatives worldwide to address broadband availability and adoption gaps in response to the pandemic, the report proposes policies and regulations aimed at preparedness.

All countries should develop or update their national broadband plans and should incorporate the six key elements common to successful plans: 1) good governance; 2) clear goals; 3) regular assessment of availability and adoption; 4) supply-side interventions (including investment in infrastructure); 5) demand stimulation activities (including digital skills programs); and 6) monitoring and evaluation programs. Lastly, countries are recommended to have a national emergency telecommunications plan in place.