e-Inclusion
Note: eEurope 2005 finished at the end of 2005.
Please note that these pages are archived and no longer updated.
For up to date information, please see the i2010 strategy website.
For up to date information relating to the e-Inclusion initiative, please see the following page
eEurope 2005 carries the ambitious objective of achieving "an Information Society for All". This means overcoming social and geographical differences, ensuring an inclusive digital society that provides opportunities for all, thus minimising the risk of 'digital divide'. The achievement of a truly inclusive Information Society requires a demand-oriented approach where the needs and specificities of all social groups and areas of the EU are taken into account.
eEurope 2005 thus contains measures regarding e-inclusion in all its action lines, and is closely linked to various EU activities on social aspects and regional aspects of the Information Society. For further information on e-Inclusion, see here.
The Social Dimension
Employment and social affairs in the context of the Information Society concern the contribution of advanced technologies in the transformation of society and the economy to improve the living and working conditions of citizens. In this regard, the prerequisites for an inclusive Information Society are widespread access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) platforms and services, skills to benefit from them, and willingness to do so.
ICT skills and use are addressed through various EU initiatives on education and culture in the context of the information society, including "e-learning" actions. In this context, it is important to ensure fair and affordable access to information and knowledge, striking the right balance between, on the one hand, copyright protection and, on the other, widespread availability.
With regard to ICT access, particular attention is needed for those women and men that are most at risk of being excluded, such as disabled and older people. The EU is very active in this area, commonly referred to as "e-accessibility" or simply "accessibility", thus contributing to the EU Disability Strategy.
The Regional Dimension
An inclusive Information Society also includes regional development issues, with the aim that all EU regions can benefit from ICTs, especially in the context of enlargement. The Commission has adopted "guidelines on criteria and modalities of implementation of structural funds in support of electronic communications".
Multiple ICT Platforms and Convergence
A "multi-platform" and convergent approach that exploits the potential and synergies of various, interoperable, ICTs can contribute to both social and regional inclusion. This allows for a greater diversity and personalisation of the ICT offer, thus catering for different usage patterns and needs so as to facilitate access and use of Information Society services. In this context, several options can complement and/or substitute personal computer connections, which is today the main gateway to the Information Society, including digital broadcasting, third generation mobiles and other types of wireless access.
The EU therefore supports ICT multi-platform access and convergence through eEurope, as well as the
regulatory framework for electronic communications and various projects in the framework of the "Information Society Technologies" (IST) research and development programme.
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| Last update: 04/05/2007 |
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