Introduction

Much of the discussion in previous chapters has revolved around problems of spectrum management likely to be encountered in developed countries. It is thus pertinent to ask how the situation differs for developing countries.

If anything, their dependence on spectrum-using technologies is even greater. Lacking fixed networks to deliver communications services such as voice telephony and broadcasting, they are heavily reliant on spectrum for commercial and non-commercial services. This is illustrated by recent ITU data, which show the growth of penetration (per 100 inhabitants) of fixed and mobile lines in the least developed countries. It shows that mobile lines were roughly the same in number as fixed lines in 2001 (see Figure 16.1), but by 2004 they outnumbered fixed lines by three to one. Over the 2000–4 period the number of television receivers, mostly relying on terrestrial distribution, also increased by 50%. These data emphasise the importance of getting spectrum policy right.

Consequences for spectrum management

What special aspects of spectrum management are important in developing countries? It is helpful first to identify the differentiating factors between the two environments that are relevant.

• Developing countries are characterised by a lower per capita income, which reduces consumption of all items including spectrum-using services.

• Conversely, a lack of alternative platforms places a high priority on the development of wireless systems; there is also growing evidence that mobile communications can improve business efficiency, widen markets and promote income growth in developing countries.

• At the same time, much spectrum in developing countries is not yet assigned, or assigned wastefully to government departments, especially defence forces.

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