Mechanism for stimulating the spread of broadband internet in Russia

The article discusses the problem of digital inequality in Russian regions and ways to overcome it. The goals and objectives of reducing the digital divide have been defined, which are to ensure that all members of society have equal opportunities to use digital technologies and benefit from them. The features of digital inequality in Russia are outlined, which characterize two main aspects. The first aspect considers the level of access to the Internet and other ICTs. The second aspect is the level of digital competence of users and digital literacy. A modern mechanism is proposed to stimulate the development of broadband Internet connection in order to reduce digital inequality. To implement the proposed mechanism, a system of incentives for the development of digital infrastructure and improving digital literacy of the population has been developed. It is also noted that digital literacy and access to broadband Internet are important social determinants, since the use of broadband Internet has a positive impact on the well-being of the population, increasing people’s self-efficacy, as well as integrating them into the modern world community. Within the framework of this study, measures have been developed to ensure equal access of all residents to digital infrastructure, as well as to overcome the problems associated with the shortage of digital skills of the population of the regions of Russia, which should be provided by regional authorities and the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation.