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“Digitalization must not exclude anyone” – Seniors feel left behind
More and more areas of everyday life are being handled exclusively digitally – from online banking and doctor's appointments to local and long-distance transport tickets. The AWO Darmstadt is now warning of the consequences of this development and calling for a fundamental right to analog participation so that no one is excluded from social life.
When everyday life without the Internet is hardly possible
Whether it's train tickets, money transfers, or contacts with authorities, digital solutions are considered efficient and cost-effective. But for many older people or those without access to digital technology, everyday life is becoming increasingly complicated. "There's a large group that theoretically owns a smartphone but can't use it. We take care of these people," explains the AWO.
At the Heiner Lehr Center on Kopernikusplatz, she operates a support center with a digital consultation hour where seniors receive support in using smartphones, tablets, and computers. The goal is to reduce anxiety and promote digital participation.
Demand for a fundamental right
"We need a guarantee that there will always be a non-digital alternative," emphasizes the AWO. Lawyer and former data protection officer Thilo Weichert supports the demand: "A fundamental right to analog participation is necessary to prevent discrimination. 'Digital only' can exclude people who cannot afford technology or who cannot participate digitally due to age or health reasons."
Weichert suggests that the issue be discussed socially and, in the long term, included in the catalogue of fundamental rights: "This is the only way to ensure that existing fundamental rights also apply in the digital space."
Digitalization and analogue alternatives in balance
The AWO emphasizes that digitalization should be advanced, but without leaving people behind. Analogue alternatives are indispensable – not only for marginalized groups, but also in the event of technical failures. "Digitalization must not exclude anyone. Fair compensation means that progress and participation go hand in hand," it concludes.
(DARMSTADT – RED/AWO)
