This is digital inclusion in action

How can we ensure that more people are included in the digital transition? Digital literacy and access to the benefits of a digital society is a democracy issue – but we know that not everyone has the skills or resources to fully participate. “Digital inclusion in action” is dedicated to promoting collaboration, dialogue, and knowledge sharing in the Nordic-Baltic region. 

Although the Nordic and Baltic societies are among the most advanced in Europe when it comes to digitalisation, some groups in society risk being excluded. Digital literacy, digital skills and competences are necessary to participate in the digital economy and society. 

This research project focuses on the following societal groups at risk of being digitally excluded: 

  • Elderly people
  • People with disabilities
  • People with low or no education
  • Immigrants with lacking language skills
  • People residing in rural areas
  • People between 15-25 (as this group often struggle with communicating digitally with the public sector).

Our goal is to develop a clear understanding of what digital inclusion looks like in our region, and to identify the key factors that contribute to it. We’ll be engaging in data collection, interviews and case studies as well as working closely with networks of digitally vulnerable groups. The aim is to understand effects on different societal groups, and to ensure that their voices are heard and understood by policy makers and practitioners in the region.  

We will visualize the status and access to (what?) and capability of (what?) in the Nordic-Baltic region and share best practices when it comes to bridging the digital gap. Groups at risk of digital exclusion will be involved, examining collaboration and support mechanisms that are enabled by civil society actors. 

How can we increase digital inclusion in the public sectors in Nordic and Baltic region? Can we make sure that everyone can participate in our digital society? This is what we asked influential voices on the topic of digital inclusiveness.

Louise Kampmann, working at nextpuzzle that is part of the consortium Digital Europe – Nordregio’s partner in this research project. With 11 years of experience in public digitalization, Louise understands political processes and strategies to offer public digital solutions.