The link between socio-economic background and Internet use: barriers faced by low socio-economic status groups and possible solutions

The digital divide affects low socio-economic status groups in particular. According to previous research and survey results of the ELOST project (e-Government for Low Socio-Economic Groups), socio-economic factors – especially age and level of education – play a role in determining whether a person is an Internet user or non-user. This article presents the findings of the survey, as well as those of focus group discussions organized within the framework of the project, and contemplates possible solutions for tackling e-exclusion.