Ambiguous connections: entitlements and responsibilities of global networking

This article examines efforts to provide low-cost Internet access devices for the poor in the light of debates about the appropriate role of information and communication technologies in development and the priority that should be given to enabling the poor to become connected to global networks. A critical analysis of recent private sector initiatives to design low-cost laptop computers is offered in the wider context of the need to consider the politics of technology and the insights that can be drawn from ongoing debates about ICT4D and the need for public dialogue and evaluation of investment priorities in forums that enable the participation of the poor. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.