This May 17 marks World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, a date that invites us to reflect on the progress, opportunities, and challenges surrounding digital access and transformation in the region. While Latin America has made important strides, there are still gaps in access, speed, and service quality—especially between urban and rural areas.
The goal is clear: to connect more people with better technological solutions.
In 2024, approximately 70% of households in urban areas of Latin America had Internet access, according to data from ECLAC (Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean), although this figure drops significantly in rural areas, where it can fall below 40%. The digital divide is also reflected in income levels: while more than 90% of households in the highest income quintile have internet access, this figure drops below 50% in the lowest quintile, underscoring persistent challenges in achieving digital equity across the region.
Digital transformation will only be sustainable if inclusive, efficient, and secure connectivity is guaranteed.
This means not only continuing to expand infrastructure but also improving interoperability and data protection.
In recent years, technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have accelerated digitalization. This has tested the capacity of networks to handle large volumes of data with low latency. However, the deployment of solutions such as 5G or low-Earth orbit satellite networks is not advancing at the same pace in all countries, posing technical and regulatory challenges. Added to this is the urgent need to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities.
In particular, artificial intelligence has become a strategic ally in optimizing networks, predicting failures, managing data traffic, and personalizing services—even in contexts with limited infrastructure. In rural areas, its application enables more efficient planning of connectivity deployment, prioritizing areas with the greatest social impact. Moreover, in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, AI—integrated through mobile and satellite networks—facilitates equitable access to essential services, thus helping to reduce structural gaps in the region.
In this context, the Connect 2030 Agenda of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) becomes a key roadmap. Its focus on growth, inclusion, sustainability, innovation, and partnership aligns public and private efforts to reduce the digital divide and promote equitable access to information technologies. This is why companies like Cirion Technologies align with this action plan to actively work on providing next-generation digital infrastructure in Latin American countries, enabling remote communities to access services that improve their quality of life.
This initiative also directly links the development of telecommunications with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting a digital transformation that ensures inclusivity and equity, enabling all sectors of society to benefit from its advantages while also addressing the region’s social, economic, and environmental needs.
Connectivity is much more than Internet access.
It is a tool for equity and progress that must serve people. If we want to close gaps, we must invest with purpose and a long-term vision. At Cirion, we are committed to strengthening our infrastructure in hard-to-reach areas, enabling more people and companies to benefit from digitalization.
Although the pace of evolution will vary across sectors and regions, it will be irreversible. Companies must align their business strategies with solid infrastructure and do so with the support of regional technology platforms. On this World Telecommunication Day, the call is to consolidate alliances and policies that ensure a fairer and more effective digital environment, contributing to the sustainable growth of Latin America.
Author:
Santiago Londoño
President, Connectivity
Cirion Technologies
