Comparative analysis of broadband penetration and digital public services in South East Europe

Broadband is starting to be deemed by many as a public utility and several countries have already recognized it as a civil right. The European Commission (EC) acknowledging the significance of broadband services for the improvement of citizen welfare and its economic benefits, has put in place targets for the diffusion of broadband to all citizens and businesses in the European Union. This paper, comparatively assesses the current state of affairs in broadband and digital public services in selected South East Europe countries in order to identify weaknesses and highlight strengths and to produce knowledge resources and provide insights that will support informed decision making including strategy and policy planning. It builds on three surveys that took place in the second quarter of 2013 and evidence gathered from seven South East Europe countries.