A coalition of organisations has lodged a complaint against Belgium, raising concerns that the country’s growing reliance on digital services is deepening inequality and excluding vulnerable groups. This collective complaint, coordinated by Unia and the Combat Poverty Service, challenges Belgium’s shift towards digital-only access for essential services, which leaves those unable to use digital devices at a disadvantage.
The digital divide and its impact
Not everyone has equal access to digital technologies or the skills needed to engage with them effectively. While online services may be convenient for many, they can become significant barriers for others, including people with disabilities, older adults, and those experiencing poverty. In Belgium, the increasing disappearance of non-digital access points means that using digital means is often the only option to obtain vital public and private services.
This digital divide risks exacerbating social exclusion by shutting out individuals who are unable to navigate digital platforms or do not have the necessary technology. The complaint highlights how the situation disproportionately affects already disadvantaged groups.
The role of the Council of Europe’s European Social Charter
The complaint was submitted to the European Committee of Social Rights, the body responsible for monitoring compliance with the European Social Charter. The Charter requires signatory states to ensure that essential services remain accessible through multiple channels – including non-digital formats such as phone lines, physical offices, or postal contact – thereby safeguarding the rights of those unable to use digital means.
Unia and the Combat Poverty Service gathered hundreds of testimonials from affected individuals as part of their evidence. However, recognising that only pan-European organisations can officially submit claims to the Committee, they partnered with Age Platform Europe, ATD Quart Monde International, and the International Federation of Human Rights to formally file the collective complaint on behalf of the coalition of Belgian organisations.
Continuing advocacy for digital accessibility
This action aligns with wider efforts across Europe to ensure that digital transformation does not leave anyone behind. The European Disability Forum (EDF), actively involved in these discussions, continues to call on policymakers to guarantee accessible communication and inclusive digital services.
Recent EDF initiatives include calls for the Digital Networks Act to incorporate provisions that ensure accessible video and communication tools, as well as the release of the updated European Standard EN 301549 on digital accessibility. Furthermore, EDF is collecting stories from people with disabilities who have encountered barriers to accessing housing, highlighting the continued need for attention across various sectors.
Further information
For more details about this complaint and other EDF work, the secretariat can be contacted via info@edf-feph.org.
Related news articles include:
- Digital Networks Act needs to act on accessible communication (16 September 2026)
- New European Standard on digital accessibility is out (4 September 2026)
- EDF survey on housing problems of persons with disabilities (19 August 2026)
These developments emphasise the importance of maintaining inclusive access to vital services, preventing further digital exclusion among Europe’s most vulnerable populations.
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