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Mapping connectivity for saving lives: The early warning connectivity map (EWCM)

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    • Date
    20 January 2026
    Timeframe
    16:00 - 17:00 CET Geneva
    Duration
    60 minutes
    • Days
      Hours
      Min
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    Despite the global expansion of mobile and internet networks, critical connectivity gaps persist – particularly in areas most vulnerable to natural hazards and other emergencies. Reaching these populations with timely early warnings remains a pressing challenge for achieving the UN Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative.

    Approximately 97.9% of the world’s population is covered by mobile network technology, gaps remain, leaving millions without reliable access to life-saving communications.

    To address this challenge, the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in partnership with Microsoft AI for Good Lab, Planet Labs and the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, has developed the Early Warning Connectivity Map (EWCM). This geospatial tool integrates connectivity and coverage datasets with high-resolution population density and hazard exposure datasets to produce granular, subnational maps that identify connectivity ‘coldspots’.

    The EWCM helps ICT regulators and national stakeholders to visualize where connectivity investments or alternative communication solutions – such as radio or satellite – are needed to ensure access to early warnings. This session will showcase the EWCM using a case study from Liberia, illustrating its value for strengthening early warning systems nationally.

    Learn more: https://aiforgood.itu.int/early-warning-for-all-leveraging-ai-to-reach-the-unconnected/

     

    Session Objectives:

    By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

    • Identify the scale and implications of mobile connectivity gaps, despite high global coverage, and why locating unconnected populations is critical for life-saving communications.
    • Learn how the Early Warning Connectivity Map (EWCM) works, by describing its purpose, data sources, and methodology, including how it integrates connectivity, population density, and hazard exposure data to identify connectivity ‘coldspots’.
    • Demonstrate the tool’s functionality using real country examples to show how connectivity ‘coldspots’ are identified.
    • Apply EWCM insights for decision-making by demonstrating how ICT regulators and national stakeholders can use EWCM outputs – illustrated through the Liberia case study – to guide connectivity investments, deploy alternative communication solutions, and strengthen national early warning systems.
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