Social inclusion is a process that enables a young person to build up self-esteem, self-realisation and resilience, to become an autonomous and productive member of society, able to reach self-fulfilment and contribute to the development of society as a whole. However, certain groups of young people face multidimensional barriers in this process.

This study explores the extent to which digitalisation can support the process of social inclusion for various groups of young people, such as youth with disabilities; NEET youth; young refugees and migrants; LGBTI youth; young women and girls; youth suffering from substance abuse or dependency; youth from minority ethnic, racial or religious backgrounds; socio-economically marginalised youth; homeless youth; youth in abusive households and those who have committed or have been a victim of crime.

The authors examine, using the literature review and data collected through the survey, the policy instruments developed by European, national and local authorities, aimed at addressing social inclusion within the context of increasing digitalisation. The study further presents a collection of existing digital platforms, online tools and educational and training opportunities available to young people and youth workers or teachers. Finally, it takes a critical look at the opportunities and risks associated with social inclusion of young people within an increasingly digitalised society.

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