According to the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Facts and Figures 2024 report, an estimated 5.5 billion people are using the Internet in 2024. This represents a significant increase of 227 million individuals compared to revised figures for 2023.
The report highlights that while global connectivity continues to rise, reaching 68% of the world’s population, about one-third of the population, or 2.6 billion people, remain offline.
The ITU notes that persistent digital divides, particularly in low-income and least-developed countries, continue to challenge the goal of universal connectivity.
Key findings from the report include:
- High-income countries: 93% of the population is online.
- Low-income countries: Only 27% of the population has Internet access.
- Least developed countries (LDCs): 35% of people are online.
- Landlocked developing countries (LLDCs): 39% of the population is connected.
The report also highlights the need for intensified efforts to bridge digital divides, ensure affordability, and bring meaningful connectivity to underserved populations.
Source: Vanguard
