As the digital age advances, a surprising number of Germans are left behind: approximately 4% of the population has never used the internet, sparking concerns about the country’s digital divide. With millions more at risk, what can be done to bridge this gap and ensure equal access to technology for all?
For most people, using the internet is an essential part of daily life, but not for approximately 4% of Germans who have never gone online.
According to recent statistics from the German Federal Statistical Office, around 2.8 million people between the ages of 16 and 74 in Germany have never used the internet, labeling them as ‘offliners.‘
The age group between 65 and 74 years old comprises the largest cohort of offliners, while younger generations are less likely to be offline.
The figures are taken from an annual survey on the use of information and communication technologies based on data collected throughout the EU.
Germany’s internet usage rate is just below the EU average of 5%, with the Netherlands and Sweden having the highest number of internet users, along with offliners making up less than 1% of their population.
In contrast, Croatia and Greece have higher rates of non-internet users, at 14% and 11%, respectively.
According to the United Nations‘ International Telecommunication Union (ITU), around 32% of the world’s population did not use the internet in 2024.
The ITU notes that ‘internet use remains tightly linked to the level of development.‘
This highlights the importance of addressing the digital divide and ensuring equal access to technology for all individuals, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic background.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is essential to acknowledge and address the disparities in internet usage.
By understanding the demographics of offliners and working towards bridging the digital divide, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals, communities, and societies that have access to modern information and communication technology (ICT) and those that do not.
This disparity affects over 3.8 billion people worldwide who lack internet access.
The digital divide is often exacerbated by factors such as income, education level, geographical location, and age.
It has significant social and economic implications, including limited access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities.
