Gender and digital access gaps and barriers in Asia : but what about after Access?
Date
2022-10
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Abstract
This paper explores the gender gaps in digital access and the underlying reasons for those gaps in the global South. It shows that over time some progress in closing those gaps in certain parts of South Asia, however it then goes on to argue that getting women simply connected is not the end goal. By examining the cases of India and Sri Lanka, the paper then identifies two key barriers to women’s meaningful access, specifically knowledge/awareness and digital skills barriers. The evidence shows that in these countries, the levels of digital skills and awareness of digital opportunities (such as online freelancing, using platforms to sell goods/services) are particularly low. The paper argues that in order to be digitally empowered, women need to firstly be aware of the possibilities of being online and have the necessary skills to enrich that experience.
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Conference Paper
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Keywords
GENDER AND DIGITAL ACCESS, DIGITAL ACCESS, WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT, DIGITAL SKILLS, INDIA, SRI LANKA, SOUTH ASIA