In a world where video calls, instant messaging and high-speed internet are common, there is a country where the internet has not yet reached the common people. Let us know which country it is and what are the reasons behind it.
Eritrea is the only country in the world where mobile data services like 3G, 4G or 5G are not fully available to the general public. Mobile phones are limited to basic voice calls and SMS only. Internet access is mostly limited to a few government-sanctioned Internet cafes, mainly in the capital city. Internet speed is very slow in these cafes also. Additionally, internet usage can cost around ₹100 per hour.
The government of Eritrea exercises complete control over telecommunications. Users are required to show their government identification at Internet cafes, and their online activity is closely monitored. Without Internet-based calling, the main way for people in Eritrea to keep in touch with relatives living abroad is through international telephone calls. These calls are expensive and often not reliable, but they are still the most direct way to communicate with the outside world.
Although local media is completely under government control, many households still rely on satellite television to watch international news. Many Eritreans live in Ethiopia, Sudan and several countries in Europe. News, updates and even holiday greetings are often brought with them by returning migrants.
