UNEVOC Connect

Digital divide refers to the distinction between those who have internet access and are able to make use of new services offered on the World Wide Web, and those who are excluded from these services. At a basic level, the participation of citizens and enterprises in the information society depends on access to information and communication technology (ICT), i.e. the presence of electronic devices, such as computers, and internet connections. The term explicitly includes access to ICTs, as well as the related skills that are needed to take part in the information society.

The digital divide can be classified according to criteria that describe the difference in participation according to gender, age, education, income, social groups or geographic location.

The term "digital divide" refers to the gap between individuals, households, businesses and geographic areas at different socio-economic levels with regard to both their opportunities to access information and communication technologies (ICTs) and to their use of the Internet for a wide variety of activities.