A Lifeline for the Displaced

Connectivity is a vital need for people affected by crisis. GSMA is a founding member of the Global Connectivity for Refugees Initiative alongside ITU, UNHCR and the Governments of Luxembourg and Spain. The initiative mobilises the expertise, resources, and investment needed to ensure all major refugee hosting areas have available and affordable connectivity by 2030, advancing the digital inclusion of more than 20 million people forced to flee and their hosts. Over time, technological advances like aerial connectivity solutions will make it easier to close remaining coverage gaps. However, for the foreseeable future, cross-sector cooperation between MNOs and humanitarian and development actors will continue to have a major role in ensuring network expansion is equitable for those who need it most.