The dominance of English on the web and poor security could prove barriers to more people coming online, says a study.
Booking Holdings’ Next Billion Online report, which looks at Asia’s digital transformation, shows 76% believe the dominance of English has meant many cannot participate in online channels.
In addition, 84% believe poor online security could be an issue, and 76% say lack of affordable internet and 72% say lack of affordable devices are barriers.
Further potential barriers cited in the report include government censorship (71%) and the lack of useful local content (68%).
The study, which surveyed more than 1,000 digital leaders and experts in China, India and Indonesia, also reveals that 79% view the internet as a necessity and 82% see it as a “fundamental right.”
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Across the three countries, 78% of respondents believe all citizens should have equal access to internet connectivity.
Respondents also believe increased internet access will improve social and economic situations.
They were also quizzed on what the “Next Billion” would use the internet for, with 75% saying social media, 71% saying the consumption of news and 67% saying to buy goods and services.
The report also reveals an improvement in the lives of women and girls as a significant impact of the expansion of connectivity in Asia.
Almost 80% of respondents says gender is not a barrier to online adoption, and 86% believe gender equality will help drive adoption and, conversely, according to 91%, greater digital participation will improve gender equality.