Brussels – On January 30, 2025, EfVET attended the launch campaign event Essential Services Must Be Accessible Even Offline, hosted at the European Parliament. Organized by Lire et Écrire in collaboration with S&D, The Greens/EFA, and multiple Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), the event explored the increasing digitalization of public services and the risks it poses to vulnerable communities. Experts and policymakers debated solutions to ensure digitalization serves as an enabler rather than a barrier.
The Challenge of Digitalization
David Cormand, MEP from The Greens/EFA, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing that digital tools are not user-friendly for all. “Digital is not an inclusive tool by default,” he stated. He highlighted the risks of algorithm-driven systems and how corporate and political influences shape digital landscapes in ways that erode equality. He argued for digital tools to remain under democratic supervision and noted the environmental concerns of an unchecked digital transition.
Carlos San Juan de Laorden, a retired doctor and initiator of the campaign #SoyViejoNoSoyIdiota, stressed that digitalization is not inherently progressive but merely an advancement. He advocated for a dual system allowing both rapid digital services and slower, human-centered alternatives. “Digital services should be designed for users, not just creators,” he stated. The increasing shift toward online-only appointments and video consultations, he warned, is turning essential daily tasks into exclusionary hurdles.
Real-Life Struggles with Digitalization
Marte Diomande from Lire et Écrire Charleroi shared harrowing experiences from people who struggle with literacy. She spoke of the isolation and panic that digitalization imposes on individuals who cannot read or write. “We feel lonely, useless, and abandoned,” she said. Recounting a personal experience, she noted how people are often told that information has been sent via email—yet they neither understand how to open it nor trust its content. Privacy is also compromised, as they have to rely on others to interpret their messages.
Monie Ferjani from Brussels Platform Armoede and a member of the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) shared the bureaucratic challenges she faced when moving within the city. Basic tasks like paying bills online or submitting documents digitally become daunting obstacles. She also highlighted the fear of scams and cyber threats, a concern echoed by many who are unfamiliar with digital security.
The Role of Public Institutions
Jiri Svarc, Head of Unit, DG EMPL.D.1 (Social Policies, Child Guarantee, SPC), stressed the need to ensure that access to essential services is not restricted to the digitally proficient. Louise Culot from Lire et Écrire pointed out that basic social rights are not being met, as people are being cut off from essential services simply for failing to pay digital energy fees. She raised the question: What role should digitalization truly play in our society?
Economic and Social Impact
A roundtable discussion, moderated by Chloe Berthélémy from European Digital Rights (EDRi), included perspectives from Julia Wadoux (Age Platform), Jessica Machacova (EAPN), and Stefi Richani (Equinox Initiative for Racial Justice). The panel explored economic disparities, the role of private tech companies, the affordability of digital devices, and the environmental impact of digital expansion. Speakers criticized profit-driven digitalization that neglects inclusivity.
Closing Remarks: A Call for Inclusion
Catarina Martins, MEP, The Left, closed the conference with a strong message: “Digitalization is not making services more inclusive; it is making exclusion more widespread.” She dismissed the argument that digitalization is saving public money, stating that it is, in fact, deepening inequalities. Digital transformation, she argued, is not inherently green, as it increases energy consumption and exacerbates environmental concerns. She emphasized the growing problem of social fragmentation, noting that even young people are experiencing more loneliness due to the shift toward digital interactions.
As the conference concluded, Lire et Écrire reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for inclusive services, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transition. EfVET stands in support of these principles, recognizing the importance of maintaining accessible, human-centered services within vocational education and training. The key takeaway was clear: digitalization should complement, not replace, human-centered services. The EU must take decisive action to guarantee that essential services remain accessible both online and offline, preserving equality and inclusion for all citizens.
For more information, visit www.righttooffline.eu.
Credits:
Event Report & Photo Coverage, Markel Pinto, Project Officer Intern
Editorial Support, Jaime Rivas, Communications Intern
