1. Introduction The Cabinet of the former Government of Kiribati approved the original version of this policy in April 2011. The reforms identified in that policy are now well under way. This updated policy takes account of events since then and looks forward for the next five years. Many parts of the 2011 policy statement are still relevant and those elements are incorporated in this updated version. The core policies approved in 2011 are continued and new policies and goals have been introduced to cover an extended range of services. Supporting Progress Towards UN SDGs Each of the measures in this policy directly supports Kiribati’s progress towards achievement of the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agreed at the UN Sustainable Development Summit in New York in September 2015. Links to other Government Policies This policy explicitly recognises the Government’s manifesto and the Kiribati Vision for 20 years known as KV20, as well as national sector policies like the Trade Policy Framework (TPF), and the Fisheries Policy. It links the development of ICT services in these sectors to the broader national strategies and developments goals. Realising and exploring ICT full potentials The policy addresses the introduction of e-Government; the development of ICT services on all islands; national internet security; and managing ICT reform at the national level. ICT developments will also support tourism, fisheries industries and inclusive trade through the development of an enabling environment for e-Commerce. The policy also looks into a broader range of CT matters, including radio and television broadcasting, disaster risk management, safety of life at sea and new legislation for cyber security and privacy. The Government of Kiribati recognises the critical role of telecommunications in Kiribati’s economic development. Telecommunications is a key ingredient in connecting people to each other and provides vital services that underpin economic and social wellbeing. Consequently, the Government is committed to fostering the development and use of affordable, reliable telecommunication services in the interests of all of the people of Kiribati. The Government affirms the need for affordable and reliable telecommunication services as a fundamental input for enhanced economic growth and development, particularly in the underserved and remote areas of Kiribati. International experience, particularly in developing countries, shows that Kiribati National ICT Policy 2019 1