This debate is concerned with the impact of mobile phones on development. Do they have more value in social development or in economic development? Your contribution is invited to this debate. Which do you think matters more? What do you think is happening with mobile phones in development? And what needs to be done to maximise their value?

The background paper from the moderator, David Souter sets out some of the key facts about mobile phones -especially how access and use have grown in developing countries over the years since WSIS.

Mr Rich Ling briefly describes some of the key ways in which mobile phones have had an impact on social development.

Ms Abi Jagun briefly describes some of the key ways in which mobile phones have had an impact on economic development.

Guest speakers:

• 13/04 Jenny Aker comments from the perspective of someone who has worked on small scale economic outcomes.
• 13/04 Ken Banks comments from the perspective of someone concerned with small scale development activity.
• 20/04 Alison Gillwald comments on developments in Africa.
• 20/04 Harsha da Silva comments on developments in South Asia.
• 20/04 Roxanna Barrantes comments on mobile phone developments in Latin America.

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Debate timeline: 11 April 2011 - 2 May 2011