One of the most significant lessons learnt during the pandemic is that digital connectivity is a lifeline for society. It can also drive our economic recovery, build resilience, and enable our green transition. Joakim Reiter, Vodafone Group’s Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer, explains why we need faster development in 5G if we are ‘to build back better’ and ensure Europe remains competitive.
Q: How has the pandemic changed our relationship with online technologies?
We spoke to people from across Europe, with the help of Friends of Europe, to understand their experiences with technology during the pandemic. Many described connectivity as ‘essential’, as digital technologies were the only way to stay informed, connected, keep working, access crucial public services and healthcare, and study. It’s incredible to realise how schools responded by transferring lessons online, and how small businesses pivoted to provide online services. In early 2020, how many of us regularly used video conferencing technologies?