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The significance of information and communication technologies for reducing poverty

MARKER, Phil
MCNAMARA, Kerry
WALLACE, Lindsay
January 2002

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A study for DFID staff, and for policy consideration, about the role of ICT in development. Identifies and assess the links between information and poverty, and concludes that although spreading ICT ('bridging the digital divide') should not be an end in itself, there is enormous potential for ICTs to increase information flow and empower poor people. The study then discusses the potential role of the international community, and sets out specific recommendations for DFID. Includes several appendices containing: a bibliography; brief case studies of Chile, Costa Rica and India; and list of related DFID funded projects. The study concludes that ICT should not be viewed as an end itself but has the potential as a tool to increase information flows and empower people. It can play a part in achieving International Development Goals

Enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities living in urban areas

VENTER, C
et al
2002

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People with disabilities constitute a significant proportion of the poor in developing countries. If internationally agreed targets on reducing poverty are to be reached, it is critical that specific measures be taken to reduce the societal discrimination and isolation that people with disabilities continue to face. Transport is an important issue. This paper aims to further the understanding of the mobility and access issues experienced by people with disabilities in developing countries and to identify specific steps that can be taken to start addressing problems; produce a compendium of guidelines that can be used by government authorities, advocacy groups and agencies to improve the access to transport. The investigation into mobility needs was conducted in five case study countries: India, Malawi, Mexico, Mozambique and South Africa

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