Intelcon Research (2004). Universal Access Funds. http://www.inteleconresearch.com/pdf/ua%20funds%202004%20update.pdf
This report examines the funds that are used to promote universal access in developing countries and emerging markets. It provides summaries of universal access projects in 13 countries, including the year the fund was established, how it is administered, the source of funds, and projects/services supported. For a more detailed analysis of a developing country’s experience with the development of universal access, see: Uganda Communications Commission (2005). Funding and Implementing Universal Access Innovation and Experience from Uganda. International Development Research Centre (IDRC). http://idrinfo.idrc.ca/archive/corpdocs/121245/188-4.htm
It is important to note that Universal Access is different from Universal Service: “Universal service policies are more commonly found in developed countries. Universal service is aimed at increasing the number of individual residences with telecommunications services and providing telecommunications services to all households within a country, including those in rural, remote and high cost locations.” In contrast, universal access policies are more common in developing countries: “Universal access policies work to increase access to telecommunications services on a shared basis, such as on a community or village-wide level. Universal access programs typically promote the installation of public payphones or public call offices in rural or remote villages or low-income urban areas with the aim of providing a basic and initial connection to the public telecommunications network.” Universal service and universal access policies have traditionally focused on ensuring access to basic telecommunications, but are increasingly focused on access to the internet and other information and communications technologies. Universal Access policies are relevant to community broadband projects because there is not a universal service policy in the United States supporting broadband access. There are universal access policies and efforts, such as the FCC’s e-rate, which helps libraries and schools get connected, and the services provided by community technology centers.
