Director's Message
A Message From Our Director
Dr. Caroline Wamala Larsson
2023 has been a year of change and growth for SPIDER as we prepare to mark 20 years in 2024. This anniversary serves as a reminder of our ability to adapt and reinforces the urgency of our work in a world where digital access increasingly determines economic and social outcomes. From the start, SPIDER has worked where technology meets human development, ensuring digital solutions serve people rather than the other way around.
Sweden, known for its early commitment to digital innovation, saw the potential of communication technologies to strengthen societies long before the rest of the world caught on. When SPIDER was founded in 2004, it reflected this thinking—bringing together researchers, practitioners, and institutions to create solutions that fit local needs. That approach has remained constant.
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In 2023, SPIDER continued to connect policymakers, technologists, and community leaders to shape digital tools that are practical, accessible, and locally driven. This year’s efforts have focused on digital health, STEM education, and ICT regulation, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure that technology expands opportunities rather than deepens inequalities. Expanding our International Training Programme (ITP) through the Team Europe Initiative has strengthened our ability to support African telecom regulators, increasing knowledge-sharing and collaboration across borders.
The need for digital inclusion has never been more pressing. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 2.6 billion people remain offline, with Africa accounting for the largest share. Without action, this divide will reinforce existing economic disparities. SPIDER’s role is to help close that gap by working with partners to ensure that digitalisation reaches those who need it most.
As we move into 2024, our focus remains on practical solutions that put people first. Digital transformation should not be a top-down process—it should be built with and for communities. SPIDER will continue working to ensure that technology serves as a tool for equity rather than exclusion. To everyone who contributed to our work this year—partners, funders, and communities—we are grateful. The progress we’ve made is a shared effort, and the road ahead will require the same spirit of collaboration.
A Glance at 2023
Over the past year, we focused on strengthening partnerships through direct engagement, taking part in international workshops, conferences, and on-the-ground visits with key collaborators.
April
Girls in ICT Day 2023
June
September
Strengthening the Web, Narrowing the Gaps
1. Open Data and Good Governance in Cambodia
SPIDER’s long-term commitment to transparency and accountability is demonstrated through its work in Cambodia, which supports Open Development Cambodia (ODC).
Countries have data privacy laws
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Asian countries have adopted such laws
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African countries have adopted such laws
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Least developed countries have adopted such laws
