In an increasingly digital world, connectivity is no longer a luxury – it’s an essential utility. Yet a striking imbalance still defines the global digital landscape.
While some nations are pushing ahead with ultra-fast broadband and robust digital infrastructure, others are struggling to establish even basic access.
At ETL Systems, we know that satellite networks play an increasingly vital role in bridging connectivity gaps, especially where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or vulnerable. We have investigated the current state of global digital connectivity by analysing four key indicators across multiple nations: GDP per capita, the number of connected devices, the percentage of internet users in the population, and vulnerability to natural disasters.
These metrics form the foundation of our Global Connectivity Index, providing a clear, data-led view of how well different countries are positioned to support resilient and inclusive digital infrastructure.
A widening gap
At the very top of the index, Switzerland leads with a total score of 34.41, largely as a result of a strong digital infrastructure, high GDP, low disaster risk, and widespread internet adoption.
On the opposite end of the scale is India, with a score of 8.59 – heavily influenced by their extremely high natural disaster risk. This highlights the significant challenges faced by many populous, fast-growing nations.
The nearly fourfold difference in index scores underscores how economic, geographic, and political factors intertwine to shape a nation’s digital future. It also reflects a troubling reality: countries most vulnerable to natural disasters often have the least robust digital infrastructure to respond effectively.
Global Connectivity Index – Top 5
| Rank | Country | GDP (USD) | Natural disaster risk | Connected devices | % of population with internet access | TOTAL Index Ranking |
| 1 | Switzerland | 105,612 | 1.05 | 1.2 | 91.40% | 34.41 |
| 2 | Singapore | 90,993 | 0.8 | 1.69 | 81.10% | 33.64 |
| 3 | United Arab Emirates | 49,428 | 4.54 | 2.05 | 95.20% | 33.28 |
| 4 | Finland | 54,489 | 1.54 | 1.71 | 97.70% | 33.16 |
| 5 | Norway | 90,332 | 2.61 | 1.1 | 94.80% | 32.74 |
At the top of our Global Connectivity Index are five nations — Switzerland, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Finland, and Norway — all demonstrating a powerful combination of economic strength and digital maturity.
While each country has taken a slightly different path, they share some common traits, including high GDP per capita, widespread internet access, and a strong adoption of connected technologies.
Switzerland leads the pack, with an impressive GDP per capita of $105,612, over 91% of its population online, and a low natural disaster vulnerability score of 1.05. Its steady economy and strong infrastructure continue to support its reputation as one of the most digitally resilient nations in the world.
Close behind, Singapore combines economic might with advanced tech adoption. With 81.1% of its population connected, a GDP per capita of $90,993, and one of the lowest disaster risk scores globally (0.8), the city-state has cemented its place as a digital leader in Southeast Asia.
The United Arab Emirates stands out for its exceptionally high rate of connected devices, scoring 2.05, paired with a strong 95.2% internet penetration rate. Despite a moderate disaster vulnerability score of 4.54, the UAE’s investments in smart cities and infrastructure push it into third position overall.
In fourth place, Finland has the highest internet access among the top five at 97.7%, a testament to its nationwide focus on digital literacy and education. Combined with a GDP per capita of $54,489 and a low disaster risk score of 1.54, Finland’s digital readiness is both broad and deep.
Norway rounds out the top five with a GDP per capita of $90,332, 94.8% internet penetration, and a balanced performance across all indicators. Its disaster vulnerability score of 2.61 remains relatively low, reflecting the country’s stability and robust public infrastructure.
Together, these nations illustrate what’s possible when long-term investment, policy support, and innovation come together to power a truly connected society.
Global Connectivity Index – Bottom 5
| Rank | Country | GDP (USD) | Natural disaster risk | Connected devices | % of population with internet access | TOTAL Index Ranking |
| 44 | Mexico | 14,123 | 35.9 | 0.96 | 75.10% | 13.94 |
| 45 | Iraq | 5,737 | 9.24 | 1.11 | 43.40% | 13.84 |
| 46 | Philippines | 4,058 | 46.9 | 1.52 | 64.10% | 11.38 |
| 47 | Peru | 8,280 | 27 | 1.2 | 46.50% | 11.25 |
| 48 | India | 2,680 | 41 | 0.79 | 62.60% | 8.59 |
At the lower end of our Global Connectivity Index, India, Peru, the Philippines, Iraq, and Mexico highlight the ongoing and complex obstacles facing emerging economies in the digital era — from limited broadband infrastructure to geographic and economic constraints.
India currently sits at the bottom of the index. With a GDP per capita of $2,680, a modest 62.6% internet penetration rate, and a connected devices score of 0.79, the country’s challenges are compounded by a high natural disaster vulnerability rating of 41.0. Despite being a major tech hub globally, India’s digital divide, particularly between urban and rural populations, remains a critical barrier to progress.
Just ahead of India, Peru also struggles with digital inclusion. With less than half its population (46.5%) online and a GDP per capita of $8,280, the country faces significant constraints. A natural disaster score of 27.0 further complicates efforts to expand and stabilise its connectivity infrastructure.
The Philippines, while demonstrating a relatively high connected devices score of 1.52, has 64.1% internet access and a low GDP per capita of $4,058. What sets the country apart, and poses a major challenge, is its extreme vulnerability to natural disasters, scoring 46.9, the highest in the entire index. Typhoons, earthquakes, and flooding regularly damage infrastructure and delay digital development.
In Iraq, only 43.4% of the population is connected, with a GDP per capita of $5,737 and a connected devices score of 1.11. While its disaster risk score of 9.24 is lower than others in this group, political instability and historical conflict continue to hinder investment in digital infrastructure and services.
Mexico rounds out the bottom five, despite having a comparatively higher GDP per capita of $14,123 and 75.1% internet access. Its low connected devices score (0.96) and high natural disaster risk (35.9) reflect broader challenges, including rural coverage gaps and vulnerability to earthquakes and hurricanes, that impact connectivity resilience.
Across these countries, a common set of issues emerges: rural areas with underdeveloped broadband networks, affordability concerns, geographic barriers, and the impact of natural disasters.
Addressing these interconnected challenges requires not only infrastructure development but also policy reform, public-private partnerships, and long-term investment strategies that put digital inclusion at the centre of economic planning.
Continent-by-continent connectivity
Examining the data on a continent-by-continent basis highlights Europe’s clear dominance in global connectivity rankings, with seven of the top ten most connected countries located on the continent. This strong performance is driven by Europe’s high GDP per capita, well-developed social infrastructure, and coordinated digital policies, such as the EU Digital Single Market.
Significant public investment in broadband and cross-border infrastructure further supports connectivity, while education systems emphasise digital skills from an early age. Universal service mandates and affordable broadband initiatives also play a crucial role in ensuring widespread digital access across the region.
Notably missing from the top five is the United Kingdom, ranked 12th with a score of 29.80, and the United States, sitting at 14th with a score of 27.61. Despite strong internet access, both countries fall behind due to lower connected device scores and, in the US’s case, a high vulnerability to natural disasters. The results highlight a surprising digital connectivity gap in two of the world’s most advanced economies.
Regions such as Africa and South Asia remain near the lower end of the index. In general, countries in those areas face challenges including fragmented policies, limited investment capacity, and geographic barriers that hinder the development of digital infrastructure and the expansion of connectivity.
Additionally, several countries in these areas rank poorly for natural disaster vulnerability, which further complicates efforts to build and maintain resilient digital networks. These factors continue to contribute to the significant digital divide observed between continents. In these regions, satellite networks supported by contemporary teleport and gateway infrastructure offer a cost-effective and scalable alternative to terrestrial networks in challenging terrain or politically unstable zones
To help overcome some of these obstacles, satellite internet presents a viable solution. Satcoms systems offer the ability to deliver resilient, high-capacity connectivity in rural or geographically challenging areas and maintain communication even when ground infrastructure is damaged or destroyed by natural disasters.
While satellite broadband has traditionally been associated with slow speeds and high costs, particularly in remote communities, the rise of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations is transforming that perception. Promising lower latency, faster speeds, and global coverage, these next-generation systems are attracting renewed interest from both enterprise users and governments seeking resilient, high-performance connectivity solutions.
An effective, scalable satellite ground segment is essential for enabling low-latency, high-availability satellite services, including broadband delivery to rural and remote areas. As demand grows for flexible, robust communications systems, the role of satellite communications will only become more integral to closing the global connectivity divide.
The link between connectivity and resilience
Connectivity is more than convenience – it’s a lifeline in crisis. Whether it’s early warning systems for tsunamis, communication networks during wildfires, or telemedicine during a pandemic, a well-connected society is better equipped to save lives and recover faster. Yet, many nations with high natural disaster risk rank among the lowest in our index.
In these environments, outages can be catastrophic. Unlike terrestrial fibre or mobile networks, satellite communications infrastructure, supported by resilient RF signal distribution, can remain operational even when ground-based systems are compromised. Without reliable infrastructure, emergency services lose coordination, vulnerable populations lose access to aid, and rebuilding efforts become slower and costlier. Strengthening satellite connectivity in these regions isn’t just about boosting internet usage — it’s about building national resilience.
Discussing the findings, Kevin Dunne, CEO of ETL Systems, said:
“The data clearly shows the significant disparities in digital access worldwide and how much work remains to achieve fair and equal connectivity. Access to reliable internet underpins economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion, yet millions of people remain offline. Bridging this digital divide must be a priority for both governments and businesses if we want to build truly connected societies.
“At ETL, our experience demonstrates that expanding connectivity can drive meaningful transformation across industries and communities. However, lasting progress requires sustained investment not only in technology but also in the people who develop and maintain these systems. Overcoming barriers such as infrastructure gaps, affordability, and geographic challenges will need coordinated efforts, innovative solutions, and policy support to enable countries to climb the connectivity rankings and close the digital divide.”
Conclusion
The Global Connectivity Index reveals a world divided not just by geography, but by access, infrastructure, and opportunity. While leading nations continue to invest in digital innovation and enjoy the benefits of robust connectivity, others face deep-rooted challenges that hinder progress.
From economic limitations and natural disaster vulnerability to fragmented infrastructure and policy gaps, the barriers are complex, but not insurmountable.
As a global leader in RF distribution for satellite communications, ETL Systems is proud to support the infrastructure that makes resilient connectivity possible wherever it’s needed most. We believe bridging the digital divide requires global collaboration, long-term investment, and a shared commitment to inclusive digital growth. Only then can we move toward a future where connectivity is not a privilege, but a universal foundation for resilience, innovation, and equality.
ENDS
Complete index
| Rank | Country | GDP (USD) | Natural disaster risk | Connected devices | % of population with internet access | TOTAL Index Ranking |
| 1 | Switzerland | 105,612 | 1.05 | 1.2 | 91.40% | 34.41 |
| 2 | Singapore | 90,993 | 0.8 | 1.69 | 81.10% | 33.64 |
| 3 | United Arab Emirates | 49,428 | 4.54 | 2.05 | 95.20% | 33.28 |
| 4 | Finland | 54,489 | 1.54 | 1.71 | 97.70% | 33.16 |
| 5 | Norway | 90,332 | 2.61 | 1.1 | 94.80% | 32.74 |
| 6 | Denmark | 68,975 | 0.98 | 1.5 | 92.40% | 32.63 |
| 7 | Ireland | 106,673 | 2.55 | 1.01 | 80.70% | 31.26 |
| 8 | Germany | 55,706 | 4.1 | 1.42 | 93.30% | 30.46 |
| 9 | Sweden | 57,419 | 3.23 | 1.4 | 91.30% | 30.34 |
| 10 | Netherlands | 66,839 | 4.11 | 1.24 | 90.70% | 30.13 |
| 11 | Austria | 58,745 | 1.16 | 1.43 | 86.10% | 30.11 |
| 12 | United Kingdom | 51,890 | 5.7 | 1.31 | 96.60% | 29.80 |
| 13 | Australia | 67,458 | 21.1 | 1.23 | 97.60% | 27.73 |
| 14 | United States | 84,440 | 22.6 | 1.14 | 92.40% | 27.61 |
| 15 | Portugal | 29,067 | 5.08 | 1.68 | 84.90% | 27.47 |
| 16 | New Zealand | 48,280 | 14.3 | 1.25 | 97.50% | 27.46 |
| 17 | Poland | 22,390 | 4.74 | 1.4 | 93.30% | 27.05 |
| 18 | Saudi Arabia | 32,409 | 9.34 | 1.25 | 96.90% | 26.91 |
| 19 | France | 47,696 | 7.54 | 1.05 | 92.20% | 26.89 |
| 20 | Belgium | 56,410 | 5.1 | 0.96 | 86.30% | 26.71 |
| 21 | South Korea | 33,121 | 10.6 | 1.25 | 95.40% | 26.43 |
| 22 | Czech Republic | 31,948 | 1.09 | 1.39 | 79.50% | 26.16 |
| 23 | Spain | 36,140 | 9.74 | 1.21 | 89.30% | 25.58 |
| 24 | Italy | 40,047 | 11.1 | 1.33 | 85.30% | 25.52 |
| 25 | Japan | 32,889 | 20.9 | 1.48 | 94.20% | 25.11 |
| 26 | Canada | 55,729 | 18.9 | 0.7 | 89% | 22.84 |
| 27 | Argentina | 13,226 | 14.8 | 1.33 | 88.40% | 22.74 |
| 28 | Romania | 20,014 | 3.22 | 1.53 | 64.90% | 22.57 |
| 29 | Chile | 16,632 | 13.7 | 1.44 | 76.30% | 21.63 |
| 30 | Russia | 15,083 | 28.1 | 1.55 | 89.50% | 21.34 |
| 31 | Turkey | 13,105 | 14.5 | 0.96 | 87.60% | 20.79 |
| 32 | Israel | 56,255 | 3.81 | 0.06 | 76.30% | 20.61 |
| 33 | Malaysia | 12,367 | 14.5 | 1.33 | 75.50% | 20.35 |
| 34 | South Africa | 6,297 | 9.6 | 1.86 | 53.60% | 19.46 |
| 35 | Thailand | 7,380 | 21.7 | 1.53 | 75.50% | 19.32 |
| 36 | Brazil | 10,323 | 13.2 | 1.02 | 77.10% | 19.17 |
| 37 | China | 12,875 | 21.3 | 1.2 | 77.30% | 18.60 |
| 38 | Vietnam | 4,639 | 24.2 | 1.62 | 69.90% | 17.93 |
| 39 | Egypt | 3,261 | 18.8 | 1 | 73.90% | 16.59 |
| 40 | Nigeria | 1,597 | 9.33 | 0.89 | 63.80% | 16.08 |
| 41 | Colombia | 7,889 | 37.8 | 1.41 | 76.40% | 15.43 |
| 42 | Bangladesh | 2,601 | 27.7 | 1.01 | 75.90% | 15.02 |
| 43 | Indonesia | 4,948 | 41.1 | 1.27 | 78.80% | 14.18 |
| 44 | Mexico | 14,123 | 35.9 | 0.96 | 75.10% | 13.94 |
| 45 | Iraq | 5,737 | 9.24 | 1.11 | 43.40% | 13.84 |
| 46 | Philippines | 4,058 | 46.9 | 1.52 | 64.10% | 11.38 |
| 47 | Peru | 8,280 | 27 | 1.2 | 46.50% | 11.25 |
| 48 | India | 2,680 | 41 | 0.79 | 62.60% | 8.59 |
Methodology
To calculate the rankings in the Global Connectivity Index, a number of key indicators were used to create an index score, including:
- The number of connected mobile devices per capita
- GDP per capita
- The likelihood of a natural disaster
- The percentage of the population with access to the internet
An index formula was then applied to give each country a weighted score, ensuring fair representation. While not directly measured as a variable, the presence of satellite-based broadband infrastructure plays a significant role in boosting connectivity scores where terrestrial solutions are limited. Data correct as of June 2025.