Digital Citizenship and the Right Not to Use the Internet: The European Approach

Abstract

The growing importance of the concept of digital citizenship reflects the integration of online participation, rights, and responsibilities into everyday life. European policies and initiatives increasingly emphasise digital inclusion, universal access, and the promotion of digital literacy as prerequisites for active citizenship in the digital era. At the same time, the question arises of whether individuals should also be entitled to a right not to use the internet without facing social, economic, or political exclusion. This article explores the European approach to digital citizenship in the context of this emerging right, highlighting tensions between policies aimed at inclusion and the freedom of individual choice. It analyses how to reconcile the promotion of digital participation with respect for the autonomy of individuals who choose to remain offline. It also argues that recognising the right not to use the internet is crucial for protecting personal freedoms and preventing forced digital dependency, while inclusive strategies should ensure that non-users are not marginalised in exercising their civic rights.