Cooperatives for Digital Inclusion and Telecommunications

Digital Inclusion This is a central theme in the debate about access to technology and information, especially in regions of Brazil that face a lack of internet coverage.

The new Law No. 15,324 of 2026 represents a significant step by authorizing cooperatives to offer telecommunications services on an equal footing with large companies.

This article will discuss how this initiative aims to expand internet access in rural areas, the need to overcome digital deserts, and the potential of cooperatives to promote the reduction of inequalities and stimulate competition in the sector.

Law 15.324/2026: Authorization for Telecommunications Cooperatives

Law No. 15,324 of 2026 represents a significant milestone in the telecommunications sector by authorizing... cooperatives to provide services in equal conditions with large companies.

The main purpose of this measure is to expansion of internet access in regions with poor coverage, especially in rural areas and sparsely populated locations.

Historically, large operators have often neglected these areas, resulting in the formation of veritable "digital deserts".

However, cooperatives have proven extremely successful in other sectors, such as electricity, which raises expectations that they can also succeed in this area. reduce digital inequalities It is to foster competition in this sector.

The initiative is seen as an essential step towards digital inclusion And it comes with the support of key committees, such as the Economic Affairs Committee and the Science and Technology Committee.

For more details about the law, you can consult the official website. Plateau.

This movement not only guarantees progress for cooperativism, but also offers a legal certainty necessary for these entities to operate in the sector.

Digital Deserts and Limitations of Major Operators

You digital deserts These refer to areas where internet access is extremely limited or non-existent, mainly in rural regions.

Large telecommunications operators often do not expand their infrastructure to these regions due to various factors.

• Lack of economic scale
• High infrastructure costs
• Limited financial return

These reasons create significant barriers to the development of quality connections.

Many Brazilians in these areas remain deprived of essential services, demonstrating the urgent need for alternative solutions, such as... telecommunications cooperation.

The impact of the lack of coverage is devastating for rural communities, restricting access to education, health, and economic development.

The limitations imposed by these digital deserts They keep the communities isolated. compromising growth opportunities.

As described in a report by Ministry Connectivity"The lack of digital infrastructure in rural areas remains one of the biggest challenges to social inclusion and progress."

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Cooperatives, Digital Inclusion and Stimulating Competition

The approval of Law No. 15.324/2026 This brings about a significant change in the telecommunications landscape in Brazil by allowing cooperatives to operate on an equivalent basis to large operators.

Historically, sparsely populated areas, especially in rural regions, have faced challenges in accessing the internet due to a lack of economic interest from large companies.

Cooperatives, known for their positive impact on electricity distributionThey now have the opportunity to replicate that success in the field of telecommunications.

With the participation of cooperatives, the potential for reduce inequalities It's immense, since these organizations have the flexibility to serve less fortunate communities.

This expansion not only increases competition in the sector, but also promotes digital inclusion.

Below is a comparative overview of the impact of this change:

These changes were approved by the Committees on Economic Affairs, Communication and Digital Law, and Science and Technology, highlighting the strategic relevance of this project for a more connected and equitable future in Brazil.

Find out more about this approval..

In summaryThe approval of the law allowing cooperatives to operate in the telecommunications sector is fundamental to promoting digital inclusion and reducing regional disparities, encouraging a more connected and equitable future for all Brazilians.