"Covid-19 shows why internet access is a basic right. We must get everyone connected.", 15 April 2020

[I]nternet access is a lifeline — not a luxury... The coronavirus crisis has starkly exposed the shocking digital divide that persists around the world. Only 54% of the global population is connected today, with people in poorer regions far less likely to be online, along with women, elderly people and those living in remote and rural areas... 

Governments, companies, multilateral institutions and civil society can work together... The Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) and the Web Foundation have published a policy brief (PDF) recommending steps [given below]... towards universal internet access...  

• Governments must immediately implement policies to ensure everyone can connect to the internet [including ending internet shutdowns, reducing taxes, using funds to ensure connectivity]...

• Companies must provide affordable and accessible connectivity options [by reducing late fee, eliminating barriers, sharing infrastructure]...

• Governments, companies and multilateral institutions should form Public-Private Partnerships to speed up service delivery [by making devices and access affordable for all]...

• Civil Society Organisations should also serve as a foundation for community support for citizens