Digital disparity – the new face of inequality. The impact of digitization on vulnerable groups

Digital technologies are rapidly advancing and becoming increasingly present in our lives, changing the way we live, learn and work. This comes with challenges, especially for vulnerable groups – the elderly, people with disabilities, people on low incomes, children, religious minorities.

Access to digital services requires not only skills, but also the cost of powerful devices and the internet, which some cannot afford. Complicated and unfriendly interfaces and their lack of adaptation to the needs of people with disabilities also contribute to limiting access to digital services. These problems have led to a new form of inequality. Digital disparity reflects differences between groups in their access to and use of information technology and the degree of risk they face. It is therefore important that the digitization process ensures equitable and secure access to the benefits of technology for all, through inclusive policies and measures to reduce digital divides, without leaving any group behind.

Low-income people are the most vulnerable group in terms of digital progress. They lag behind digital developments due to the high cost of devices and internet subscriptions. The elderly and people with disabilities are a particularly vulnerable group in this respect.

In 2023, about half of people over 65 were poor. The average old-age pension was MDL 3,676, only 27% higher than the national minimum subsistence level (MDL 2,877). The average disability pension of MDL 2,451 covered only 85% of the subsistence minimum in 2023. In addition, older people have difficulty accessing information and services online due to low levels of digital literacy and psychological barriers such as fear of making mistakes.

People with disabilities have difficulties in using digital technologies because existing solutions are not always adapted to their specific needs. Lack of accessible interfaces and compatibility with assistive technologies contribute significantly to their exclusion.

Children are another vulnerable group in the digital age. They are exposed to online risks such as abuse, exploitation and access to inappropriate information. Lack of proper monitoring affects their emotional and psychological health, amplifying vulnerabilities. It is therefore essential that developers consider these risks and integrate measures such as parental control and usage limits to protect children in the digital environment.

Girls and women are underrepresented in the creation, use and regulation of technologies. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, in the 2021-2022 academic year, only 21.44% of the total number of ICT students were women. When women are not involved in technological development, digital solutions do not reflect their needs and contribute to maintaining inequalities. Moreover, women are much more affected by online violence and harassment than men.

People with religious beliefs who refuse to use IDNP (national identification number) for dogmatic reasons are deprived of essential digital services that are interdependent with IDNP authentication. The lack of alternative access restricts their participation in public digital services and limits their equal enjoyment of fundamental rights. These barriers reduce their chances to use modern technologies and access educational and professional opportunities.

Solutions:

Addressing these challenges and reducing digital disparities requires comprehensive measures aimed at creating a more inclusive society in which all groups can reap the benefits of digitization without being excluded or marginalized.

• Digital literacy is key to bridging the digital gap. Developing national digital literacy programs tailored specifically for each vulnerable group, including the elderly and people with disabilities, is vital. The creation of inclusive educational resources, such as video tutorials with subtitles or adapted apps, user guides to new services and platforms, can facilitate this process.

• Inclusive design must be the cornerstone of technology development. Every application, platform or any other digital service must be friendly and adaptable for people with disabilities. Involving end-users in the development process can ensure that the right solutions are found to meet their needs and particularities.

• Affordability must be improved by introducing preferential packages for the purchase of digital equipment and internet access. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in providing accessible technologies at low prices.

• Online protection and security need to be strengthened through awareness programs and technical support to help vulnerable users surf the internet safely. Educational campaigns on online risks and protection methods are essential to reduce digital vulnerabilities.

• Awareness raising among the wider public and authorities are fundamental to promoting digital inclusion. Information campaigns and specialized training for public officials on the specific needs of vulnerable groups can help to better integrate the needs of these groups into the digital environment.

Digitization is an important driver of development, but it can accentuate social inequalities if measures are not taken to include everyone. Digital progress should help social inclusion and not create more gaps. In the Republic of Moldova, it is essential that this process is accompanied by policies to ensure equal access to digital technologies for all, especially for vulnerable people who face difficulties.

Solutions that consider economic, educational, legislative, and technical factors are required to build a more just and inclusive society. Technologies must be accessible and easy to use for all people, regardless of age, income or ability. In addition to inclusive policies, digital platforms play an important role. Simplified access mechanisms, promotional packages for vulnerable groups and customized solutions can help reduce barriers.

The general solution is to recognize the existence of digital disparity and target measures to ensure availability, accessibility and affordability for all social groups.

Author: Carolina BAGRIN, Programme Director

Photo source: Freepik