The most recent phase of digital transformation is marked by rapid technological changes, creating both opportunities and risks for the economy and society. The Volume 2 of the OECD Digital Economy Outlook 2024 explores emerging priorities, policies and governance practices across countries. It also examines trends in the foundations that enable digital transformation, drive digital innovation and foster trust in the digital age. The volume concludes with a statistical annex.
OECD Digital Economy Outlook 2024 (Volume 2)
Strengthening Connectivity, Innovation and Trust
Introduction
90%
Of countries had a national digital strategy or were developing one in 2023.
50%
Individuals avoiding certain websites, applications or social media due to privacy concerns.
11-24%
The share of women among ICT specialists in OECD countries.
Digital policies are evolving rapidly and remain a top priority for countries
In 2023, digital government, connectivity and skills topped the list of digital policy priorities. Increasingly developed at a high level of government, national digital strategies play a critical role in co-ordinating these efforts. Nearly half of the 38 countries surveyed develop these strategies through dedicated digital ministries, up from just under a quarter in 2016. Among 1 200 policy initiatives tracked across the OECD, one-third aim to boost digital technology adoption, social prosperity, and innovation. AI and 5G are the most often-cited technologies.
Our digital future requires ubiquitous, affordable connectivity and a diversity of skills
Demand for reliable and affordable connectivity is rising. Over the past decade, fibre has become the dominant broadband access technology across OECD countries, while mobile data usage per subscription almost tripled from 2018 to 2023 . Ensuring affordability, availability, and quality is essential to close connectivity divides, especially in rural areas. Meanwhile, advancements in AI and robotics are reshaping skills requirements, highlighting the need for investments in education, training and lifelong learning initiatives.
Empowering women can help advance digital innovation
Women remain an untapped source of digital innovation, making up only 11-24% of information and communication technology (ICT) specialists in OECD countries. Women also represent a smaller share of researchers, inventors and entrepreneurs, and they found fewer digital-related start-ups. Promoting ICT skills and entrepreneurship among women is vital to unlocking their full potential in this sector.
Building trust in online spaces requires new media literacy strategies and addressing privacy and security concerns
The spread of false and misleading content online creates risks to the safety and well-being of people and society. The 2024 OECD Truth Quest Survey reveals that over half the respondents avoid certain websites, apps or social media due to privacy concerns, and one-third feel they lack control over their personal data. More context also does not always help people verify its veracity, raising questions about the design of media literacy initiatives. Strengthening product and service security including in global supply chains is likewise needed to foster trust online.
Technological innovations offer solutions to reach net-zero targets and protect the planet
Digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial intelligence (AI) can help achieve environmental goals by increasing energy efficiency, reducing costs and accelerating innovation in energy grids and supply chains. Sectors such as global transport can also benefit from digital tools that reduce their environmental footprint. However, these technologies also have their own environmental impacts, which should be minimised.
