The 2030 Development Agenda, approved by the leaders of the countries that make up the United Nations Organization, is an action plan in favor of people, the planet and prosperity. Within this agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were created, representing a historic opportunity to unite countries and people around the world and embark on new paths into the future. The SDGs are formulated to eradicate poverty, promote prosperity and well-being for all, protect the environment and address climate change globally.
We will focus specifically on investment in digital infrastructure (particularly investment in telecommunications) and how it can contribute to the eradication of poverty and inequality in societies.
In an era with so many technological developments and advances, greater access to the Internet and telephone communication can make it easier for us to find out about job opportunities and access educational resources, which increases the chances of breaking out of the cycle of poverty. Digital infrastructure and technologies contribute to agricultural sustainability and improve food security. Telecommunications are a door to help reduce inequality, as they help connect remote areas and provide less developed countries and rural communities with job opportunities and free access to knowledge.
In Latin America and the Caribbean there is an increase in the investment that some countries are making in telecommunications issues; As an example, Mexico, Argentina and Colombia are the ones that have invested the most, while Suriname, Bolivia and Honduras have the least accumulated investment.
It must be recognized that the correct use or application of current technologies in different areas of society can help rapid development; For example, the technology can monitor soil and environmental conditions, reducing potential damage to crops and improving agricultural productivity. It also allows farmers to access information and knowledge capable of optimizing the productivity and yield of their crops, such as agricultural treatments and weather forecasts. These systems help them reduce production costs and waste through better use of inputs. In addition, technology can increase returns by facilitating decision making with more accurate data.
One by one we could explain how the application of a digital infrastructure improves specific areas of society, but the important thing is to recognize, given the evidence based on the development of other Latin American countries, that investments in telecommunications promote sustainable development and should be strongly encouraged.