This report investigates the diverse global landscape of community networks and their role in shaping the information society. The 43 country reports detail varied experiences and strategies for establishing these networks, highlighting common principles like participatory governance, community ownership, skills transfer, and a DIY ethos. These are further contextualized by eight thematic reports addressing critical issues such as regulatory frameworks, sustainability, local content, feminist infrastructure, and the significance of 'community stories' and their embedded power structures.

The Global Information Society Watch 2018 report, with its focus on community networks, offers a comprehensive overview of grassroots digital initiatives worldwide. The collection of country reports and thematic analyses provides valuable insights into the practical challenges and successes of establishing and sustaining these networks. The report likely serves as a key resource for policymakers, researchers, and activists engaged in bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive information societies. Its strength lies in synthesizing diverse global experiences into actionable knowledge.