Kazakhstan Leads Central Asia in Digital Connectivity Growth
A recent survey by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) reveals that Kazakhstan has emerged as the most digitally advanced nation in Central Asia. The report indicates that countries within the Caucasus and Central Asia are among the most digitally connected globally, with the region closely trailing Europe in terms of “universal and meaningful connectivity.”
The ITU’s findings suggest a consistent upward trend in digital connectivity worldwide. “The 2025 results show continued global advances in connectivity, with nearly all economies improving their performance,” the report states. Notably, low-income countries are advancing rapidly, albeit from a lower starting point. Yet, significant gaps between these nations and higher-income counterparts remain evident.
Kazakhstan’s overall index score surpasses several European Union member states, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. In Central Asia, Kazakhstan is followed by regional players such as Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Among these, Azerbaijan recorded the most substantial improvement from the previous year, indicating a positive trajectory in its digital landscape.
Connectivity Metrics in Central Asia
The survey highlights that Kazakhstan leads in the percentage of households with internet access, boasting an impressive rate of almost 97 percent. In contrast, it ranks lowest among regional nations regarding the percentage of the population covered by at least a 4G/LTE mobile network, at 89 percent. This data underscores the disparity in infrastructure development across the region.
In the Caucasus, Georgia stands out with the highest percentage of cellular phone ownership at 93 percent, while Armenia leads in home internet access at 91.7 percent, followed closely by Azerbaijan at 88.6 percent and Georgia at 89 percent. These figures illustrate a competitive environment where nations strive to improve their digital frameworks.
The ITU differentiates between “universal connectivity,” which refers to general internet access, and “meaningful connectivity,” defined as the capability to utilize that access effectively. This includes addressing issues like affordability, digital skills, and connection quality. Notably, Uzbekistan had a lower score for meaningful connectivity compared to universal connectivity, suggesting barriers that limit citizens’ ability to fully leverage available resources.
Conversely, Kyrgyzstan demonstrates a strong relative performance in meaningful connectivity, although it is the only country in the region to see a decline in its overall index score in 2025 compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, Russia leads all CIS states in meaningful connectivity metrics, highlighting its robust digital infrastructure.
Future Implications for the Region
While the ITU’s report provides an encouraging overview of progress in digital connectivity, it concludes with a note of caution. “While the overall results are encouraging, the [index] remains a partial snapshot of digital connectivity,” the survey states. It emphasizes that several critical dimensions remain unmeasured due to data gaps, suggesting that further research is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape in Central Asia and the Caucasus.
As these nations continue to advance their digital capabilities, the focus will need to shift towards ensuring that all citizens can fully benefit from these developments. The findings indicate that while progress is being made, addressing the underlying barriers to meaningful connectivity will be essential for fostering inclusive digital growth in the region.
