The Start2surf@home is an initiative launched by the Federal Government aiming to reduce digital divide by offering computers with full Internet access to 100 000 Belgians.

After 'Internet for Everyone' in 2006, the Federal Government is launching a new all-in-one operation aiming at promoting the use of computers and Internet via a low-priced pack. The Start2surf@home pack is customised according to the needs of the user and includes a computer, an internet subscription, an anti-virus software as well as a basic information manual to introduce users into the world of computers and Internet.

However, the digital divide issue remains a reality, as this has been demonstrated in the survey conducted by the Walloon Telecommunications Agency (Agence Wallonne des Télécommunications - AWT) on the use of ICT in 2008. The results showed that almost one third of Walloons are not using the Internet. This digital divide is also present at two levels:

• at the level of physical access to technology (lack of equipment, financial resources, and physical access) and,
• at the level of the difficulty to use technology (lack of ICT, intellectual and social skills).

The evolution of a traditional industrial society to a knowledge-based society indicates the need for a widespread use of computers and Internet access to such an extent that the use of electronic tools has to become as common as water or electricity.

 Further information:

• Official Press Release -Walloon Telecommunications Agency (in French)
• Tousenligne.be-About Start2surf@home - Website  (in Dutch, French, German)