Digital accessibility and social participation of people with disabilities

Abstract

Digitalization has become a structural component of the contemporary welfare state and constitutes an essential resource for access to rights, services and social participation. However, its benefits are not distributed evenly, and certain groups continue to be excluded from digital opportunities. Among them, people with disabilities are one of the most affected groups, as they face barriers to accessing, using and benefiting from technology, especially in educational and professional fields linked to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).This study analyses the situation of this group in Spain from a European perspective, using Eurostat indicators on internet access, use of digital services and interaction with e-government. The quantitative analysis is complemented by two additional techniques: (a) content analysis of regional government websites used for applying for official recognition of disability status; and (b) a focus group with professionals from social organizations, who assessed the accessibility of these web environments.The results show that, despite improvements in connectivity, significant gaps persist in digital skills and in the use of digital public services. These inequalities highlight the need to promote policies that integrate accessibility, digital literacy and institutional support in order to move towards effective and sustainable digital inclusion in Spain.