Universal Service Fund and Digital Inclusion for All (2013)
This report examines the practical challenges that are often encountered in the operation and
management of universal service funds (USFs), including clearly defining the overall USF strategy, scope and objectives and
addressing weaknesses or shortcomings in the underlying legal and regulatory frameworks. Evidence suggests that lack of economic viability of the basic fund design and the current
restrictions in disbursing funds result in less than 40 per cent of USFs being enabled to fund broadband
deployment.
Importantly, the report contains a series of conclusions and strategic recommendations as to
how overall USF management can be strengthened and enhanced going forward, both for existing funds
and for those in the planning stages. These conclusions and recommendations are supported by a
proposed operational blueprint to concretely assist countries in their implementation.
Download the report: English.
