This article examines a manifestation of the transformation in the global order—the expansion of the BRICS bloc into the "BRICS+" format—and the associated challenges and opportunities in digital development. The study aims to explore the relationship between socio-economic inequality and the availability of information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure in BRICS+ countries, with a focus on internet penetration, mobile communication development, digital literacy, and composite indices of digital accessibility. The analysis primarily covers the period from 2000 to 2024, contingent on data availability. The empirical framework incorporates international indicators, such as the ICT Development Index (IDI), internet penetration rates, connectivity costs, and e-government development metrics, cross-referenced with socioeconomic profiles of the member states. The findings reveal that disparities in digital infrastructure correlate with macroeconomic gaps and exacerbate structural imbalances within the alliance, particularly between core BRICS nations and new participants. The study concludes that BRICS+ countries must formulate a coordinated digital policy to bridge the digital divide, ensure inclusive growth, and achieve sustainable development amid the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Lazanyuk et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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