What Works to Advance Women's Digital Literacy?

Women face many barriers to accessing and using the Internet. As a result, despite the rapid global spread of mobile Internet, women all over the world are less likely to participate in the digital economy than men. In fact, women are 15 percent less likely than men to use mobile Internet, leaving 265 million fewer women connected. This digital gender gap is even more pronounced in low-income countries, where only 30 percent of women use the Internet compared to 41 percent of men (GSMA 2024a). This digital gender gap shuts women out of the economic opportunities offered by the Internet. This report provides insights into the key barriers and promising approaches related to women's digital literacy and digital financial capability. It explores the challenges hindering women's adoption of digital literacy, ranging from insufficient broadband connectivity and affordability issues to restrictive social and gender norms. The paper provides a practical guide to operational teams, program designers, and policymakers for developing basic digital literacy programs tailored for women in low- and middle-income countries. By showcasing emerging strategies and initiatives, it presents actionable solutions for advancing women's digital literacy