Importance of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Policies

ICT policies are extremely important for developing countries. ”ICT can be a powerful enabler of development goals because its unique characteristics dramatically improve communication and the exchange of information to strengthen and create new economic and social networks ... ICT can contribute to income generation and poverty reduction. It enables people and enterprises to capture economic opportunities by increasing process efficiency, promoting participation in expanded economic networks, and creating opportunities for employment.” ⁴

Statistical evidence of ICT importance: Correlation between percentage of internet users and per capita GDP

Source: Digital Opportunity Initiative

ICT Policies in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has traditionally been an exporter of agricultural products, mainly coffee beans and bananas. However, about fifteen years ago the government realized the importance of technology on the impact of its economy and thus began establishing a series of programs and policies designed to boost the economic growth of the country. The main programs and ICT policies established by Costa Rica have been the following: ⁵

a. Steady reduction of computer taxes since 1985.

b. Creation of the Omar Dengo Foundation in 1987 and establishment of computer laboratories in all public schools throughout the country.  The Omar Dengo Foundation is a private, non-profit organization created to promote the economic, social and human development of Costa Rica, implementing innovative programs to improve the quality of education. The Foundation is a pioneer in the introduction of computer technologies, innovative educational programs and new learning environments into the country’s public elementary schools system. ⁶

c. Clear decision by the Costa Rican government to use technology and information systems to offer better services to its citizens.

d. Creation of the National Center of High Technology CENAT in 1997. This institution is a university-supported center to foster innovation, development, training, and scientific advances on the national level.

e. Implementation of the agreement of the Global Commerce Organization, including the agreement concerning copyright laws related to commerce.

f. Establishment of the Program for the Improvement of the Software Sector.

g. Signing of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA).

h. Large investments on Internet infrastructure including the MAYA-1 project which connects Costa Rica to the United States via a high speed optical submarine cable as well as other important high speed submarine cables such as ARCOS-1.
 

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