ICT4D and the capability approach: understanding how freedom of expression on ICTs affect human development at the country-level

Gabriel Bahr, Bryan Hammer and Andy Luse

Information Technology for Development, 2025, vol. 31, issue 1, 33-56

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine freedom of expression on ICTs as a conversion factor that impacts the success of information and communication technology for development (ICT4D). Prior country-level econometric research on ICT4Ds has measured development using resource- or utilitarian-based approaches. We utilize the capability approach, a people-centered approach which presents the opportunity to look at conversion factors in a country. Using the capability approach framework, four country-level conversion factors of ICTs are identified as enablers/restrictors of either opportunity or process freedoms, and then are hypothesized with relation to human development. Using archival data and a 2SLS model, we test ICT cost, ICT infrastructure, and the interaction effect between e-participation and freedom of expression on ICTs to predict a country’s human development. Results suggest that both ICT cost and infrastructure significantly affect human development. Furthermore, freedom of expression only impacts human development with high levels of e-participation.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/02681102.2024.2337048

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