Has global internet access improved in the past two decades?

Yes, dramatically. In 2000, only about 7% of the world’s population was online. Today, more than 66% are connected, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This expansion has transformed access to education, healthcare, commerce, and communication. Mobile phones have driven much of this growth, especially in Africa and Asia. While gaps remain in rural and low-income areas, the overall trajectory is upward. Media literacy is essential in this context: having internet access is only useful if people can evaluate the credibility of what they encounter online. Evidence shows connectivity is bridging global knowledge divides.