The digital divide within the European Union

Purpose - Attempts to define the digital divide and examines the significant differences in, and implications of, the extent of internet connectivity both globally and, more specifically, within the European Union (EU). Design/methodology/approach - The paper was designed using and combining objective data and literature, adding the author's personal experiences and opinions. Findings - After 1 May 2004, when the EU was enlarged from 15 to 25 member states, the digital divide in the EU widened substantially (national connectivity varying from less than 10 to more than 60 per cent), caused by regional lack of technological infrastructure as well as cultural and psychological factors. Research limitations/implications - Many "most recent" national data on internet-connectivity are two years old. Practical implications - Inequality in internet-connectivity in the EU will increase dramatically, with all consequences for communication, dissemination of information, economy (e-commerce!), etc. Consequently, parallel to digital media, traditional means of dissemination of information - such as printed books, public libraries, local broadcasting - should be maintained and furthered.