Community Networks in Latin America: Challenges, Regulations and Solutions

Author: 
Carlos Baca, Luca Belli, Erick Huerta and Karla Velasco
Publisher: 
Internet Society

Over the past decade, numerous discussions have highlighted the essential role that internet connectivity plays in driving fundamental changes in economic and social development. The purpose of this study is not only to highlight the potential of community networks in terms of expanding connectivity and its positive social, cultural and economic externalities, but also to point out the regulatory elements that might optimise their development and highlight the regulatory experiences that have allowed removing obstacles to the full operation of community networks in Latin America.

One of the most important aspects of this study is the use of descriptive elements in its different sections in order to adopt a proactive attitude and offer specific instructions and recommendations. These elements seek to clarify how community networks might be categorized from a legal point of view, which rules should be considered when regulating community networks, and what policies should be adopted to promote and strengthen the expansion of community networks in Latin America.

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