Millions of women and girls worldwide still lack access to the internet, despite it becoming one of the most powerful tools for advancement. Without access to the digital world, they are cut off from education, essential services, and opportunities that could change their futures. Women with meaningful connectivity are often better equipped to make informed decisions, enhance their financial security, and drive transformative change in their communities.
GDIP has identified key barriers preventing women in underserved areas from accessing digital tools. These include inadequate infrastructure, high costs of devices and data, dependence on men for device usage, and limited time due to unpaid care work and income-generating responsibilities. Addressing these barriers is essential for fostering an inclusive digital future.
Access to Education: A Lifeline for Women and Girls
For many women and girls, digital inclusion means access to learning. In more rural regions where education facilities are distant, unsafe, or unavailable, online education provides a pathway to a brighter future. With an internet connection, students can take online courses, earn certifications, and develop skills that unlock better career opportunities.
Consider a young woman living in a rural community who dreams of becoming a nurse. Without digital tools, and meaningful connectivity, her aspirations are at high risk of remaining out of reach. However, with a device and a reliable internet connection, she can enroll in online courses, join virtual study groups, and eventually qualify for medical training. Digital access breaks down barriers, enabling women and girls to pursue their ambitions on their terms.
Health Information and Services at their Fingertips
In regions with limited healthcare access, digital resources can be transformative. Online platforms can empower women with vital information on preventive care, mental health, nutrition, and maternal health advice, helping them make informed decisions about their well-being.
Telehealth services allow women to consult with doctors remotely, eliminating the need for costly or difficult travel. Mobile health apps provide discreet, secure resources on reproductive health, pregnancy, and illness prevention, helping women take control of their well-being—especially in societies where discussing women’s health is stigmatized.
Financial Freedom Through Digital Inclusion
Without access to digital banking and fintech platforms, millions of women remain unbanked and financially dependent on others, limiting their autonomy and decision-making power. Digital financial tools—such as mobile banking, online payment systems, and financial literacy apps—empower women to manage their money, save for the future, and start businesses.
A woman who can open a digital savings account can build financial security, invest in her children’s education, launch a small business, or plan for long-term financial security. Women who have digital access can also send and receive money with ease, increasing their financial independence and decreasing their reliance on cash-based systems that may be unsafe or inaccessible.
Strengthening Communities and Building Networks
Digital inclusion allows women to connect – not just to the internet, but to each other. Online communities can provide support, mentorship, and shared knowledge, helping women navigate challenges and find new opportunities.
A mother looking for parenting advice can sign up to an online community where women worldwide exchange advice and experiences. A young professional can connect with mentors in her field, gaining insights that propel her career forward. These digital networks demonstrate that inclusion is not just about technology—it’s about empowering people.
Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future
The gender digital divide is more than a technological issue; it’s a barrier to progress. When women and girls are left offline, they are left behind. Ensuring they have access to meaningful connectivity means unlocking their potential and allowing them to participate fully in society.
We invest in digital inclusion not only to provide internet access, but also to empower women and girls to shape their futures, support their families, and strengthen their communities. A connected world is a stronger world—one where everyone benefits when women have the tools needed to thrive.
Join us in breaking barriers and bridging the digital divide. Together, we can ensure that every woman and girl has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.
For more information, please contact:
press@globaldigitalinclusion.org or visit Media Contacts page.
About GDIP
The Global Digital Inclusion Partnership is a coalition of public, private, and civil society organizations working to bring internet connectivity to the global majority and ensure everyone is meaningfully connected by 2030. GDIP advances digital opportunities to empower and support people’s lives and agency, leading to inclusive digital societies.