Assessing Digital Infrastructure in Internet Use A Comparative Study of Southeast Asia and Balkan Region

This study investigates the role of digital infrastructure—specifically Internet affordability, quality, and availability—in driving economic growth, with a focus on Southeast Asia and the Balkan Region. Through a comparative analysis of these digital infrastructure indicators, the research evaluates their collective impact on GDP growth in both regions. Additionally, the study assesses which digital infrastructure factor exerts the most significant influence on economic growth within these areas. The analysis emphasizes how technological affordances, such as coverage and affordability, directly influence Internet adoption and usage, while high-quality and reliable connectivity serves as a key driver for increased subscription and engagement. Furthermore, Internet availability is shown to enhance sectors like education and healthcare while reducing societal inequalities. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of digital infrastructure, exposing a stark urban-rural digital divide that hinders equitable access to online services. This study compares Southeast Asian countries, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, with Balkan nations such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey, highlighting the transformative potential of digital infrastructure in emerging markets. Addressing the disparities in digital access and literacy is essential for promoting inclusive socioeconomic development. Bridging this digital divide is critical for ensuring balanced opportunities and contributing to global efforts toward socioeconomic equality.