Call for Papers: Special Issue on the Digital Economy in the Global South

Background In recent decades, the economically disadvantaged regions of the Global South have undergone a profound transformation, driven by the widespread proliferation of digital technologies (Böhmecke-Schwafert & Moreno, 2023; Heng, Tsilionis, Scharff, & Wautelet, 2022). This seismic shift has given rise to what we now recognize as the digital economy, characterized by the intricate web of online connections linking individuals, businesses, devices, data, and operational processes (Brynjolfsson & Collis, 2019; Li, Li, & Tao, 2023). Remarkably, one of the most striking developments in this digital revolution has been the ubiquitous adoption of mobile phones, even in remote and previously underserved areas in the global south (Shirish, Srivastava, & Chandra, 2021, Srivastava and Shainesh 2015). These mobile devices have assumed a pivotal role as the primary gateway to the digital realm, enabling connectivity, seamless information retrieval, and active participation in the burgeoning digital economy (Gupta, Tyagi, & Upadhyay, 2018). This transformative landscape has ushered the Global South into a new era, presenting a complex tapestry of opportunities and challenges that have fundamentally reshaped the economic landscape of these regions (Haßler, 2022; Sarangi & Pradhan, 2020). The digital economy has emerged as a potent driver of economic growth within the Global South. Along with big corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises too have harnessed its power to tap into broader markets (Shirish, Srivastava, & Panteli, 2023). One of its transformative impacts is the democratization of financial services (Khanra, Dhir, Kaur, & Joseph, 2021). Digital payment solutions have smashed barriers, extending financial access to previously marginalized communities (Srivastava, Nehme, Luherne, & Kone, 2021). This digital wave has fueled e-commerce further, driving increased economic activity and creating fresh job opportunities (Bhargava, 2022). Thus, the digital economy's impact has been profound, altering the very fabric of economic interactions and opening doors to unprecedented growth, innovation, and access to financial services. However, the digital economy faces a set of formidable challenges in the Global South. The digital divide, privacy concerns, and regulatory ambiguities are just a few among a range of complex socio-economic issues that demand attention (Khanna & Khanra, 2023; Reggi & Gil-Garcia, 2021). The digital economy has become a hotbed for innovation and entrepreneurship in the Global South, giving rise to thriving startup hubs and technology epicenters across several nations (Teece, 2018). These burgeoning ecosystems have not only attracted significant investments but have also harnessed a pool of highly skilled talent, propelling the region's economic growth (Pan, Xie, Wang, & Ma, 2022). Meanwhile, governments in the Global South have proactively adopted digital solutions to boost transparency in public services, combat corruption, and broaden citizens' access to government resources (Khanra & Joseph, 2019). Leading urban centers like Bangalore, Lagos, and São Paulo have emerged as dynamic tech hubs, serving as catalysts for innovation and drawing both domestic and international investment. The Global South has now firmly cemented its place on the global tech stage in the digital age. Focus of this Special Issue In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of the Global South, and it is imperative to develop a comprehensive strategy that simultaneously addresses challenges and maximizes the benefits. This approach is pivotal for sustaining growth and prosperity in the region. The Global South's ongoing adaptation to the digital age will significantly influence the trajectory of the 21st-century global digital economy, positioning these regions as key players in this dynamic transformation. DECISION is committed to unraveling complexities and shedding light on uncertainties, plays a pivotal role in deepening our comprehension of these digital shifts. This Special Issue of DECISION extends an invitation for the submission of both empirical and conceptual articles. We are keen to explore the realm of the Digital Economy in the Global South through the varied lenses of decision-makers such as managers, consumers, policy-makers, citizens, and entrepreneurs. Join us in unraveling the complexities of decision-making in this rapidly evolving digital landscape and be part of a compelling discourse that aims to shed light on the unique challenges and opportunities encountered by decision-makers in the Global South. This special issue of DECISION is dedicated to exploring the brighter sides of digital economy. We eagerly anticipate submissions focusing on the topics listed below, though the list is not exhaustive. Digital Infrastructure and Readiness for Future Digital Innovations for the Bottom of the Pyramid Digital Literacy and Skill Development for Jobs E-Commerce Thrives: B2B, B2C, B2G, D2C, & P2P E-Governance, Smart Cities and Digital Democracy Empowering Women: Driving Digital Change FinTech Rising: Payment Evolution Unleashed Food Tech and AgriTech: Nourishing Tomorrow Green Tech and Clean Tech for Sustainability Health Tech: Digital Solutions at Service Inclusive Tech: Bridging the Digital Divide Internet of Everything: Future of Humanity Leading Digitally: Mastering the Network Effects Regulatory Frameworks for Digital Consumptions Startup Ecosystems: Rise of Born-Global Firms