Connectivity and Equity in the Americas (CEA) is a new IDRC program initiative which integrates the strengths of earlier initiatives and builds on lessons learned in previous programming cycles to support research on the transformational powers of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as a means to foster sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean.

CEA, jointly with ICA, focuses its programming on four main thematic pillars: e-citizenship; e-economy; e-education and e-health

CEA combines both implementation and research components as part of its objectives and methodological approach. Projects focus on the design, use, or implementation of innovative technological approaches to help bridge the digital divide, and contribute to effectively inserting the countries of the region into the information society. Projects also focus on applied research on the social uses and impact of ICTs for development in LAC, to contribute to a better understanding of their potential and challenges in development contexts, with emphasis on their role in building local capacity and influencing public policy in the region.

Background:

• PAN-Americas Networking
  In April 2006 Pan Americas project evolved into the Connectivity and Equity in the Americas program.