Bridging the digital divide: How CollectiveUP supports digital inclusion for elders in St@ndByMe

In an era where digital connectivity is essential for accessing services, maintaining social connections, and exercising fundamental rights, digital exclusion remains a pressing issue –especially for older persons. At CollectiveUP, we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transformation. Through our participation in the St@ndByMe project, we work to bridge the digital divide by fostering digital literacy and advocating for the digital rights of older adults across Europe.
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The challenge: Digital exclusion among older persons

While digital technologies have become second nature to many, older persons often face significant barriers to inclusion. Whether due to lack of access, limited digital skills, or concerns about cybersecurity, many seniors struggle to engage with the digital world. This exclusion not only affects their ability to carry out everyday tasks—such as online banking, healthcare access, and communication –but also exacerbates social isolation.

Recognizing these challenges, the St@ndByMe project takes a human rights approach to digital inclusion, emphasizing the need for equitable access to technology and digital education for older adults. CollectiveUP plays a pivotal role in this initiative by leading efforts in Belgium and contributing expertise in rights-centered education and community engagement. We are working together with the project coordinator, Linköping University (LiU), and esteemed partners: APSS CR, TREE Agency, HAEA, and Frankfurter Verband e.V.
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CollectiveUP’s role in St@ndByMe

As a key partner in St@ndByMe, CollectiveUP has contributed extensively to research, best practices, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing digital inclusion for older persons. Some of our core contributions include:

1. Identifying and Showcasing Best Practices

In Belgium, CollectiveUP has documented and promoted impactful initiatives that foster digital literacy among older adults. These include:

• DigitAll Coalition: A nationwide initiative uniting companies, social organizations, and policymakers to combat digital exclusion and ensure that digital access is a right for all.
• Intergenerational Learning Programs: Encouraging younger generations to mentor older adults in digital skills through collaborative activities like geocaching, which combines outdoor exploration with technology.
• Prison Digital Inclusion Programs: Providing older detainees with access to digital tools, online education, and telecommunication services to support reintegration into society.
• See the full report here.

2. Developing Educational Resources and Advocacy Materials

Through the St@ndByMe International Academy, CollectiveUP has contributed to the development of open-access online courses designed to equip educators and care providers with the knowledge and tools to support older persons in acquiring digital skills. Additionally, we advocate for policies that recognize digital literacy as a fundamental right and call for more inclusive digital environments.

3. Empowering Local Communities

At the heart of our work is community engagement. We collaborate with local organizations, libraries, and social service providers to create welcoming learning environments where older persons can gain digital confidence. By fostering partnerships between public and private entities, we ensure that digital inclusion efforts are sustainable and widely accessible.
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Why digital rights matter

The digital divide is not just a matter of technological advancement—it is a social justice issue. Access to the internet, digital services, and online education should not be privileges but fundamental rights. The European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles highlights the need for inclusive digital policies, yet many older persons still face barriers that prevent them from fully participating in digital society.

Through our work in St@ndByMe, we aim to reshape the conversation around digital inclusion, shifting the focus from mere access to a broader rights-based framework that ensures dignity, autonomy, and full participation for older persons in the digital world.
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Join us in bridging the gap

Digital inclusion requires collective action. Whether you are a policymaker, educator, community leader, or simply someone who believes in equal opportunities for all, you can contribute to this mission. Explore the St@ndByMe project, share our resources, and advocate for inclusive digital policies in your community.

To learn more about our work and how you can get involved, visit St@ndByMe or CollectiveUP’s project page. 

🤝 Together, we can build a more inclusive digital future for all generations. 🤝