A survey conducted by the King Boudewijn Foundation (KBS) revealed that 40 percent of Belgians lacked knowledge about using digital platforms. Additionally, many people either did not use the internet or were unable to do so effectively. The KBS found that older individuals were particularly at risk of being left behind by digital technology. Despite the assumption that all young people are “digital natives,” the survey showed that low-skilled young people had poorer digital skills than their more highly-skilled peers at more than half the time.
The KBS warned that many people, especially those who are vulnerable socially, economically, and culturally, are unable to take full advantage of the increasing digitalization of society. Although 95 percent of Belgian households have internet connections, many people solely use smartphones to go online without owning a laptop or PC. This lack of digital devices creates problems when communicating with public bodies and can make people feel insecure about online banking.
Upon analyzing the survey results, the KBS emphasized the importance of public institutions and banks maintaining an in-person presence. They stressed that it was crucial for individuals who did not want to or did not know how to use the internet to be able to carry out transactions in person.
