Virtual Conference on Rural and Agricultural Development in the Digital Age

Time of Event

Tokyo Time
8/8 - 9:00-15:40
8/9 - 8:50-16:20
8/10 - 9:00-14:00
8/12 - 9:30-13:15

Summary

Access to, and use of, digital technology in rural areas of developing countries has increased considerably in recent decades, underpinning a vast body of theoretical and empirical research on its implications for agricultural production, trade, and the wellbeing of rural households. Nevertheless, more research is needed to better understand how digitalization affects rural and agricultural development.

This virtual conference featured new research on rural and agricultural development in the digital age in developing countries in Asia and the Pacific and globally. It highlighted digitalization experiences and lessons learned within the sector and how it can support better-targeted development intervention programs.

Objectives

• Examine the roles of different digital technologies in promoting sustainable rural and agricultural development
• Discuss digitalization’s impacts on agricultural production, trade, and rural households, including poverty, employment and income growth, wellbeing, and rural migration
• Spotlight policy solutions and practices that enhance sustainable rural development

Target Participants

• Policy makers and experts from think tanks, universities, and international organizations

Output

• Greater understanding of digitalization’s effects on sustainable rural and agricultural development
• Identification of related measures for boosting the targeting and effectiveness of development intervention programs  
• Research presented will be considered for publication in the Review of Development Economics journal special issue, subject to review

Partners

• Lincoln University (New Zealand)
• University of Sussex (United Kingdom)