Acta Univ. Bohem. Merid. 2024, 27(1):58-77 | DOI: 10.32725/acta.2024.0051400

Unveiling the Digital Paradox: Assessing the Socio-Economic Impact of Enhanced Internet and Technological Infrastructure in Czech Rural Area

Alexander Shemetev1, Martin Pělucha1
1 Prague University of Economics and Business, Department of Regional Studies, W. Churchill Sq. 1938/4, 130 67 Prague 3 – Žižkov

In this study, we challenge the prevailing notion of technological optimism by empirically examining the impact of improved internet and technological infrastructure on Czech rural areas. Through careful analysis and propensity score matching, we contrast areas that have experienced significant digitisation with untreated counterparts. Surprisingly, our results reveal minimal differences in key socio-economic indicators, contradicting the expected positive correlation between improved ICT infrastructure and rural development. While acknowledging the limitations of assessing stakeholder-specific impacts, our research urges a nuanced approach, suggesting that holistic strategies beyond infrastructure investment are essential to empower rural communities to harness technological advances for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Keywords: technological optimism, digital infrastructure, rural development, socio-economic indicators, Propensity Score Matching, Czech Republic
JEL classification: O33, R11

Received: December 24, 2023; Revised: May 8, 2024; Accepted: June 17, 2024; Published: June 17, 2024  Show citation

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Shemetev, A., & Pělucha, M. (2024). Unveiling the Digital Paradox: Assessing the Socio-Economic Impact of Enhanced Internet and Technological Infrastructure in Czech Rural Area. Acta Universitatis Bohemiae Meridionalis, 27(1), 58-77. doi: 10.32725/acta.2024.005
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