NEW REPORT REVEALS NEW INCREASED SOCIAL EXCLUSION AND POVERTY DUE TO DIGITALISATION
5 September, Brussels
A new report by the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN), to be launched by 9 September, highlights alarming new risks of exclusion and poverty linked to the rise of digital-only services. “An Exploratory Study on the Use of Digital Tools by People Experiencing Poverty” sheds light on how the increasing digitalisation of welfare services exacerbates existing disparities.
Drawing on comprehensive data from 14 national networks and supported by Age Platform Europe, the report uncovers an alarming trend: the shift to digital-only services is deepening poverty for many individuals. As the EU pushes for full digitalisation of public services to enhance efficiency and reach, the report reveals significant drawbacks, including increased marginalisation of those lacking access to digital tools.
Juliana Wahlgren, Director of EAPN, emphasises:
“Reality is far removed from the common perception of technology and digitalisation. Across Europe, many people still lack access to smart devices or the internet, which severely impacts their right to essential services and benefits. In today’s world, access to the internet is often necessary to apply for a job, pursue education, or even manage basic tasks like accessing your bank account, pensions, or health records.”
The report also highlights concerns about automation of discrimination through biased systems. Artificial intelligence and automated processes used in welfare services disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, such as single parents and people with disabilities, where personal interaction is crucial for fair decision-making.
Kahina Rabahi, Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at EAPN, clarifies:
“We’re not against digitalisation, but digital services should be an option, not the only choice. They must be accompanied by accessible, affordable, and high-quality essential services available to all.“
This study points out that the trend towards digitalisation of the welfare state is driven by an austerity agenda. Therefore, EAPN expresses its concerns regarding whether the increased push for digitalisation leads to de-responsibilisation of the state, by cutting the number of public spendings and investments.
The report’s findings will be presented on 1st October 2024 in Brussels, at the Tech and Society Summit, organised by EDRi, which will bring together 40 civil society organisations and top stakeholders. The event will bring together 40 civil society organisations and key stakeholders, including Alex Saliba, MEP for the S&D Group in the European Parliament, Rebecca MacKinnon, Global Advocacy Vice President at Wikimedia, Dr. Seda Gürses, Associate Professor in the Department of Multi-Actor Systems at TU Delft, and Wojciech Wiewiórowski, the European Data Protection Supervisor.
