No. 573 - Connected Italy

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by Emanuela Ciapanna and Giacomo RomaJuly 2020

The paper describes the current status of and the prospects for telecommunications networks in Italy. It reviews the main technological solutions adopted for the deployment of ultra-broadband and analyses possible developments in digital infrastructures. In the face of the demand shock associated with the COVID-19 emergency, the paper studies the dynamics of some activities performed remotely, such as smart working, e-commerce and e-government.

Italy lags behind in the development of ultra-broadband networks, which are spread unevenly throughout the country; their deployment is proceeding slowly both in potentially profitable areas and where public intervention is necessary for their realization. The low level of digital skills of individuals, as well as the poor digital culture and the fragmentation of the production and bureaucratic systems, negatively influence the use of ICT in work, retail and administrative activities.

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