by Christine Bost, President of Bordeaux Métropole.
In recent years, digital technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, reshaping how we access services, connect with others, and pursue opportunities. Yet, as digital advancements surge forward, not everyone benefits equally.
The digital divide – a stark gap between those with access to digital resources and those without – threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities and perpetuate social exclusion across Europe.
In Europe, nearly half of the population lacks basic digital skills, while a significant portion cannot afford access to the internet. This divide is not only a matter of access, it is about opportunity.
The digital divide is not only a matter of access, it is about opportunity
Individuals and communities without digital literacy face barriers to education, employment, and essential services, hindering their ability to thrive in our increasingly digital world.
The consequences of the digital divide are profound and far-reaching. It exacerbates existing inequalities, perpetuates social exclusion, and hampers economic growth.
Moreover, the digital gap is not limited to specific age groups or demographics; it affects individuals across all walks of life. As it is often the case with societal challenges, it affects vulnerable groups the most, including migrants, older adults, and those with low incomes.
Cities are leading the way
European cities are acutely aware of the challenges posed by the digital divide and are taking proactive measures to address them.
Cities are implementing innovative initiatives to empower their residents with essential digital skills, such as Ghent’s volunteer driven digital coaching programme, Brussels’ comprehensive digital rights charter, or Leipzig and Eindhoven offering Wi-Fi hotspots across the city.
These efforts are crucial for ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age, but the first step is to understand how, and who, the digital divide is affecting the most.
The difficulty here is that national data often provides a good overview, but does not bring the fine understanding of a local situation needed to efficiently address the issue.
The first step is to understand how, and who, the digital divide is affecting the most
That’s why in 2023, in Bordeaux Métropole we launched a survey to better understand the impact of the digital divide within the metropolitan area. It provided us with valuable insights into the specific needs of residents, to inform policy decisions and initiatives aimed at reducing digital disparities within the community.
By leveraging data-driven solutions, cities can tailor their efforts to address the underlying factors contributing to the digital divide. Addressing digital exclusion requires attention to numerous indicators, including income, education, social participation and support networks.
Particular emphasis should be placed on high-risk target groups, such as people living in poverty, people with disabilities, the older population, and ethnic minorities.
Strengthening the digital skills of caregivers is also crucial, as they play a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals.
We need support from the EU
It is clear that cities are taking more and more action to minimise the effects of the digital divide. However, addressing its root causes requires more than just individual city efforts.
I am calling for stronger support from the European Union to complement our city endeavours. Networks such as Eurocities, through initiatives like its Digital Divide Taskforce, play an important role in advocating for multilateral collaborations to address this pressing issue.
I am calling for stronger support from the European Union to complement our city endeavours
Together, we can leverage our collective resources and expertise to bridge the digital gap and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Digital inclusion must remain a central pillar of the strategic agenda as Europe advances towards a better future.
The European Pillar of Social Rights, with its focus on reducing poverty and social exclusion, provides a framework for action, aligning with the EU’s priorities in strengthening digital skills, supporting the green transition and ensuring fundamental rights in the digital sphere.
The European Digital Compass also sets ambitious targets for digital inclusion, aiming for at least 80% of adults to have basic digital skills by 2030. Additionally, the European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles underscores the importance of inclusive technology that promotes the rights of all citizens.
Collaborating to leave no one behind
As we work towards closing the digital divide, let us remember that this isn’t just a technological issue—it’s a fundamental challenge to our societal values of equity and inclusion.
By uniting at the European level, we can create a more inclusive and resilient Europe where equal opportunities abound for all individuals
We need a collaborative effort at the European level, with cities, institutions, and stakeholders working together to build a future where everyone has equal opportunities in the digital world.
Let us commit to closing the digital divide, not just for the sake of technological advancement of our cities, but for the empowerment of every individual and the prosperity of our communities.
By uniting at the European level, we can create a more inclusive and resilient Europe where equal opportunities abound for all individuals.
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This article was originally published by Cities Today under the title Bordeaux Metropole calls for unity to tackle the digital divide
Cities will continue to discuss how to close the digital divide during the next Eurocities Digital Forum ‘Digital inclusion in European Cities’, which will take place in Rotterdam between 17-19 April 2024. Register to the event (Eurocities members only) here.
