Description:

Digital technologies offer immense benefits to society, but many groups face barriers to digital inclusion, including older people, the unemployed, and people with disabilities. As our daily lives become increasingly dependent on digital technologies and the internet, these groups risk social isolation, security vulnerabilities, and exclusion from economic opportunities. This session aims to explore the complexities of digital exclusion and its intersections with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). We will explore the challenges faced by marginalised communities in accessing and effectively using digital tools, with a focus on understanding the root causes of digital exclusion. Participants in this session will engage in discussions to identify the main barriers to digital inclusion and reflect on innovative solutions to address these challenges. We will draw on diverse perspectives and experiences to uncover actionable insights that can lead to meaningful change in promoting digital inclusion for all. The session programme includes • A dynamic ice-breaker to encourage networking and sharing of experiences between participants. • Brain-writing activities to capture ideas, questions, and recommendations related to digital exclusion and AI. • Insightful discussions with session speakers to deepen understanding and explore practical strategies. • Brainstorming sessions in small groups to co-create actionable outcomes and formats to tackle digital exclusion. • A debriefing session to summarise the main lessons learned and define the next steps for collaborative action. In addition, we aim to document all the inputs from the sessions and turn them into visual notes with the help of an illustrator. These visual notes will serve as a valuable resource for sharing ideas and recommendations beyond the event, contributing to ongoing efforts to promote digital inclusion and equity.