Access to Internet Declared as a Human Right by Generation Z
In a recent survey, it has been unveiled that Generation Z, those aged between 18 and 28, strongly believe that access to the internet should be considered a fundamental human right. The study, involving 2,000 participants, highlighted that a large majority of young adults in this age group view constant internet access as vital as having clean water. Surprisingly, over half of all Brits also support this view, with many believing that improving internet accessibility in rural and underserved areas should be a key focus for global development efforts. The findings revealed that eight out of 10 Gen Z individuals cannot envision life without the internet, relying on it significantly for their day-to-day activities. Similarly, even three-quarters of Baby Boomers admitted they now struggle to imagine life without internet access, despite having lived through a time before its widespread adoption.
Respondents to the survey identified the lack of internet access as one of the primary challenges faced by communities, impacting their ability to access essential information, modern healthcare, and education. Despite the widespread acceptance of the importance of internet connectivity, a staggering three billion people across the globe currently remain without it. To address this issue, the charity Hello World has taken the initiative to provide free solar-powered internet hubs to communities lacking online access. CEO and founder of Hello World, Katrin McMillan, emphasised the critical role of internet connectivity in today’s world, stating that internet access is even more crucial for remote and marginalised communities where social services may be scarce. The charity has already established 114 hubs in various countries connecting nearly 125,000 individuals to the online world, offering access to educational resources, healthcare information, and other vital services.
McMillan highlighted the significance of internet connectivity in driving economic development, improving livelihoods, and providing access to essential services. She pointed out that the Hello Hubs often serve as the only source of internet connectivity in the communities they cater to, making them indispensable for the residents’ daily lives. The CEO expressed confidence that by expanding their services, Hello World can ensure that children worldwide have equal opportunities facilitated by internet access. The charity’s efforts have demonstrated the transformative power of the internet in empowering communities by facilitating education access, DIY solutions, and improved healthcare services.
The survey’s findings underscore the growing recognition of internet access as a fundamental human right, with calls for increased efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to online resources for all. As technology continues to play an increasingly central role in various aspects of modern life, initiatives like Hello World’s serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of internet connectivity in empowering communities and enhancing socio-economic development worldwide. The study’s results highlight the evolving attitudes towards internet access and the pressing need to address digital divides to create a more inclusive and connected global society.