Decoding Meaningful Connectivity Framework: Leveraging Thailand’s Universal Service Obligation (USO) Policy for Enhancing Fixed Broadband Adoption in Rural Communities

Heranakaraoran, Supitrada

Decoding Meaningful Connectivity Framework: Leveraging Thailand’s Universal Service Obligation (USO) Policy for Enhancing Fixed Broadband Adoption in Rural Communities

James Alexander Gordon on 18th February 2026

Author Information

Supitrada Heranakaraoran, Office of The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, Thailand

Abstract

Despite substantial public investment in Thailand’s Universal Service Obligation (USO) policy, a persistent gap remains between broadband availability and actual household adoption in rural areas. While physical networks have expanded, household-level subscriptions and regular usage continue to lag, indicating that “access” alone does not guarantee “inclusion.” This study investigates how Thailand can reorient its USO policy from a traditional coverage centric approach toward a “Meaningful Connectivity” framework. The research adopts a policy-oriented mixed-methods approach. It combines a systematic review of meaningful connectivity frameworks with an analysis of Thai national regulator data. This establishes a conceptual link between fixed broadband adoption and four key dimensions: quality of service, affordability, reliability, and regularity of use. The findings reveal that expanding coverage alone is insufficient to bridge the digital divide. Rural adoption is heavily constrained by affordability barriers, and a lack of alignment between technology deployment and user needs. Evidence indicates that rural households are significantly more likely to adopt fixed broadband when service quality meets specific performance thresholds regarding speed, stability, and latency. Without reliable performance, infrastructure remains underutilized and cannot support socio-economic activities such as online learning, telemedicine, or digital financial services. The study concludes that Thailand’s USO framework must transition toward an adoption-oriented model that integrates quality of service, affordability, and usability into core objectives and funding mechanisms. Furthermore, digital literacy initiatives and locally relevant applications are essential to transform access into sustained demand. By addressing these dimensions, Thailand can bridge the “missing link” between universal access and meaningful connectivity, ensuring that digital development is truly inclusive.