The spread of the Internet and mobile phones has become one of the largest technological revolutions of the 21st century. Digital technologies have penetrated into many spheres of life, providing access to information, improving communication and simplifying access to various services. However, despite all the achievements, women in many countries are still significantly lagging behind men in digital access.
Digital Gender Gaps Research from Oxford University is engaged in studying such inequalities. Experts have developed an interactive monitoring panel that allows you to track gender differences in using the Internet and owning mobile devices. The project provides monthly updates and assessments of the level of digital development among men and women in different countries.
Although in countries with high income, the difference in digital access between men and women has practically disappeared, in countries with low and average income (LMICS), significant inequality remains. Women there are 22% less commonly used by the Internet and have 14% less often own mobile phones. Such differences in the regions of Africa south of Sahara and South Asia are especially pronounced.
Monitoring Panel digital Gender Gaps allowed to evaluate the level of digital access at the subnational level in 117 LMICS countries. Differences in digital access between regions within countries can be significant. For example, in Nigeria, more than 70% of women use the Internet in Lagos, but less than 20% in the northern regions, such as Kebby. In India, more than 75% of women in Delhi have Internet access, and in the state of Bihar, the indicator is about 35%.
Ensuring digital equality between men and women is of critical significance. Research shows that women’s access to mobile devices and the Internet contribute to their more independence in health and decision-making. In addition, digital communication strengthens social ties and information exchange, including the spread of information about reproductive health.
Mobile technologies also have a significant impact on the economic independence of women. They help to overcome poverty, expand economic opportunities and find work, offering flexible formats of interaction through online platforms.
The authors of the work believe that today, when artificial intelligence and other technological innovations are rapidly changing the digital environment, it is important not to allow women to be away from these processes. Only by closing