"Increasing overall service coverage and promoting access to telecommunications services is economically beneficial. However, universal access policies for rural and low-income areas have not sufficiently evolved with the latest technolo gy and market trends. This study reviews and evaluates the wide range of instruments available to policy makers and regulators and identifies those most likely to increase access. We also argue that establishing a conducive legal, regulatory, and institutional framework can enhance the effectiveness of the identified instruments. While no single instrument can provide a full solution to universal access, we conclude that a mix of measures can achieve specific policy objectives in a particular country environment." (Back cover)