67.9% of the World’s Population Now Has Access to the Internet – MercoPress

Global Internet Connectivity and Its Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Overview of Internet Access Growth

As of February 2025, 67.9% of the global population has access to the internet, reflecting significant progress in digital inclusion. This increase in connectivity aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), as efforts focus on reaching underserved regions worldwide.

Social media usage has also reached unprecedented levels, with 5.24 billion users online, representing approximately 64% of the global population. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and X have evolved beyond communication tools to become integral parts of social and economic interaction.

Influence of Internet Connectivity on Entertainment Trends

1. Shift to High-Speed and Mobile Access
   • High-speed internet enables instant access to HD and 4K content, enhancing user experience.
   • Mobile internet expansion supports the rise of short-form content, including YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels, promoting SDG 9 by fostering innovation in digital media.
2. Growth in Mobile and Short-Form Gaming
   • Mobile gaming penetration is projected to reach 26.6% in 2025, with platforms like Paddy Power offering over 1000 slot titles that cater to shorter play sessions.
   • This trend supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by creating new economic opportunities in digital entertainment sectors.
3. Shorter Streaming Content
   • Streaming platforms are reducing episode counts per season to maintain viewer engagement, with new shows featuring 20+ episodes dropping from 19% in 2018 to 4.5% in 2023.
   • This adaptation reflects changing consumer behavior driven by improved internet access and aligns with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by optimizing content delivery.

Expansion of Global Markets Through Internet Penetration

The increase in internet connectivity has facilitated the growth of small businesses and freelancers reaching international markets with minimal overhead costs, contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

• E-commerce markets are experiencing rapid growth, supported by gig platforms and digital entrepreneurial ventures at an all-time high.
• Regions previously excluded from global trade are becoming more integrated due to faster information dissemination and improved digital infrastructure.

Challenges and Future Directions for Achieving Universal Internet Access

Despite progress, 32.1% of the global population remains offline. Achieving 100% internet penetration is essential for meeting SDG 9 and SDG 10 and requires:

1. Upgrading internet infrastructure to provide faster and more reliable connections in underserved areas.
2. Implementing digital skills training programs to enhance digital literacy and inclusion.
3. Addressing socioeconomic barriers to ensure equitable access to digital technologies.

These measures will support sustainable development by promoting inclusive economic growth, reducing inequalities, and fostering innovation worldwide.

Photo: Pexels

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • The article discusses the expansion of internet connectivity and the need for improved internet infrastructure to achieve 100% penetration.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • It highlights the growth of small businesses, freelancers, gig platforms, and e-commerce, indicating economic opportunities enabled by internet access.
3. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article mentions the need for digital skills training to help underserved populations access and benefit from the internet.
4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Focus on including regions previously shut out of global trade and increasing internet access in underserved areas.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 9 – Target 9.c: Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries by 2025.
2. SDG 8 – Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation.
3. SDG 4 – Target 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship.
4. SDG 10 – Target 10.b: Encourage official development assistance and financial flows, including foreign direct investment, to regions where the need is greatest, to foster greater equality.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Indicator for SDG 9.c: Percentage of individuals using the internet (article states 67.9% as of February 2025, with a goal towards 100%).
2. Indicator for SDG 8.3: Growth in number of small businesses, freelancers, gig platforms, and e-commerce activity (implied by the article’s mention of increased global market participation).
3. Indicator for SDG 4.4: Availability and uptake of digital skills training programs (implied need for digital skills training to increase internet use and economic participation).
4. Indicator for SDG 10.b: Inclusion of previously underserved regions in global trade and internet connectivity (implied by the article’s reference to regions once shut out becoming more included).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: en.mercopress.com