In Iraq and Occupied Territories, security crises spur mobile phone usage

The Israeli occupation has been the most significant obstacle to the development of the telecommunications sector in the Occupied Territories, reports TerraNet, but paradoxically has increased the necessity of reliable communication, according to a landmark survey released Wednesday.

"The survey of mobile phone usage in the MENA region, which was sponsored by MTC Group, includes case studies of the telecom sectors in the Occupied Territories and Iraq. Both cases highlight the social significance in politically unstable countries of mobile phones, which link communities and families who have no other means of regular communication and help to ensure security.

"... In Palestine, mobile phones are indispensable communication tools, linking residents to displaced family members and the diaspora population, especially since the construction of Israel' s separation barrier. The Palestine Telecommunications Company and its mobile subsidiary Jawwal officials reported that mobile phones and supporting products - such as SIM cards, headsets, and chargers - are frequently held at the border for three to 12 months, meaning that by the time they reach Palestine they have lost market appeal. Also Jawwal is unable to provide consistent service to subscribers since it must get Israeli approval before constructing new mobile towers to improve reception.

... In Iraq in 2004, nationwide mobile service was provided by three companies for the first time, stimulating a mobile penetration rate unprecedented in the MENA region, with the level of mobile subscription reaching 3.45 million in March 2005. Mobile penetration has now reached 12.5 percent of the populace."

Street Photography.

emily | 10:53 AM | SMS and Politics |
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