The Impact of Digitalisation on European Citizens’ Daily Lives: Cross-Country Differences among Socio-Professional Categories

This study examines the impact of digital technologies on individuals, with a particular focus on differences across socio-professional groups and EU member states. The analysis is based on data from Flash Eurobarometer 551 (2024), which examines EU citizens' perceptions of the increasingly critical role that digital technologies play in their lives and their expectations for their impact in the near future. The main objective is to assess how various socio-professional groups differ in their expectations regarding improvements that could facilitate the daily use of digital tools. To achieve this, principal component analysis (PCA) and multiple regression analysis are employed to identify the key dimensions of digitalisation and to explore their relationship with perceived quality of life. The results provide empirical evidence of the substantial benefits that digital advancements have to different aspects of daily living. The findings also reveal significant disparities in digital access, literacy, and perceived benefits among socio-professional categories, highlighting the need for more inclusive digital policies within the European Union. This study contributes to the sociological literature on digitalisation and quality of life by deepening the understanding of cross-group differences and by revealing the specific needs and particularities of each socio-professional category. It also provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners in formulating targeted measures to ensure equitable digital inclusion among European citizens. • Digital technologies are essential to everyday life, impacting access to services, communication, education, work, and civic engagement. • The positive effects of digitalisation vary across socio-professional categories, revealing disparities in access, skills, and outcomes. • Most Europeans view digitalisation positively but stress the need for better internet infrastructure and supportive public policies. • Effective digital transformation requires tailored approaches, ensuring no group is left behind in accessing or benefiting from technology. • Our study calls for targeted policies, including infrastructure investment, digital literacy programs, and psychosocial support, to enable an equitable digital transition.