Global Connect Initiative A proposal to help bring an additional 1.5 billion people in developing countries online by 2020

The Challenge on Internet Access: majority of Internet traffic is in developed countries 24 hour view of Internet activity (Internet Census 2012)Internet Census 2012 Highest High Intermediate Low Lowest

The Challenge on Internet adoption: Despite growth, the digital divide remains between developed and developing countries % Adoption Source: International Telecommunication Union (website)website Global mean Developed countries Developing countries

The Challenge: Why are some countries lagging? Lack of funds for infrastructure Minimal technical expertise Corruption Political instabilityRestraints on free speech

1.Work with every stakeholder group to mainstream the view that Internet connectivity is as fundamental to economic development as roads, ports, electricity. 2.All countries integrate Internet connectivity and digital technologies as key part of national development strategies. 3.International Development institutions, such as multilateral development banks and development agencies, prioritize Internet for development. 4.Catalyze and support Innovative Industry-driven solutions. How will we achieve this goal? A solution: Diplomacy.

1.OPIC. –$250 Million in financing for development of a network of 2,500 telecom towers across Burma. –Similar efforts in Kenya with a local provider of solar-powered wireless Internet. 2.USAID and MCC -USAID’s Acting Administrator and MCC’s CEO affirm commitments to extend connectivity through their programs. 3.Through partners, like the FCC, produce country-specific strategies for helping to bridge the digital divide. How will we achieve this goal? Another solution: Development.

Stakeholders on 9/27 Launch of GCI at UNHQ Hill support for GCI’s goals. CFA Chairman Royce and CFA Ranking Member pen enthusiastic letters to MCC and World Bank Broad Industry support for “Global Connect” – “We congratulate the State Department for its leadership in stimulating this conversation and for providing a roadmap for the international community – both in the public and private sector.” -- Garfield, ITI 22 Global NGOs commend GCI and Secretary Kerry’s remarks in Korea at the Sunday UNHQ event. International Support Growing – On Sunday, GCI was supported by Dr. Jim Kim of the World Bank, the Presidents of Estonia and Tanzania, and other attending Ministers (Kenya, Malaysia, and Finland, etc.)

Timeline for Engagement Spring 2015 Secretary’s speech in Seoul previews Global Connect Initiative and highlights need to raise Internet access Summer 2015 Outreach to Internet and Technology and NGO Leaders on Overall Objectives of the Initiative September 2015 Launch Global Connect Initiative at a high- level event at UNGA Spring 2016 GCI Conference at the Department; announce/catalyze development assistance; produce country-specific recommendations; issue an Action Plan and Beyond Implement the Global Connect Initiative Action Plan