Authors

Azizjon Berdiqulov²; Jennifer Jackson-Preece¹;  ¹ London School of Economics, UK;  ² European Centre for Minority Issues (ECMI), Germany

Discussion

The digital age we live in presents both opportunities and challenges for social and economic inclusion, especially for such marginalised communities as minority groups. Digital divides can further exacerbate existing inequalities. Digital inclusion goes beyond mere access to devices and the global web and includes digital skills, content which is culturally relevant for minorities, and equitable policies. This paper explores how the multifaceted nature of digital inequality affects minority communities and analyses how digital gaps intersect with socio-economic, linguistic, and regional disparities. 

Following the 2023 OSCE Recommendations on the Effective Participation of National Minorities in Social and Economic Life, this paper argues for a rights-based approach to digital inclusion and emphasises the need for policies tailored based on the needs of minority groups. Key takeaways from the COVID-19 pandemic illustrated that such measures as remote learning and telehealth disproportionately omitted minorities, especially such vulnerable groups as Roma communities living in Central and Eastern Europe and lacking digital skills and access to proper digital infrastructure. In addition, digital content in minority languages is lacking which limits the social, educational, and economic potential of digital tools for such communities. 

The recommendations developed as the outcome of this study include multi-faceted strategies to enhance access, promote digital skills, and develop online resources taking into account minorities’ cultures and experiences. The success of community-driver projects, such as “First Mile” for Canada’s Indigenous communities sets the example for localised solutions in Eastern Europe. The importance of inclusive digital policies is essential in ensuring that digital transformation shall support rather than marginalise minority populations which contributes to fostering greater social cohesion and equity.