Leveraging Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICTD) in the Caribbean

Abstract

This paper presents a review of research in the field of information and communication technologies for development (ICTD) in the Caribbean. Specifically, I look at the extent to which ICTs can and have supported development in the region. In so doing, I examine the literature at three levels, in terms of development interventions, market-led interventions and policy responses, while drawing on research from a wide range of sectors such as education, commerce, etc. Most research focus on the benefits that accrue from ICTs. However, at all three levels debates have emerged with regard to the efficacy of ICTs in enabling development, the most critical of which occur at the policy level. Furthermore, there are several areas in the literature that remain unexplored and present significant opportunities to increase our understanding of the impact of ICTs on development in the Caribbean.