The Digital Divide from a Gender Perspective in Spain and Europe: Measuring with Composite Indicators

Abstract

In this paper we introduce a system of composite indicators designed to
analyze the digital gender divide. This tool, called Gender & ICT Indicators
System (GICTIS),���������������������������������������������������������� is an advance in the measurement and analysis of the difference
between men and women in the Information Society. Its application
allows us to a) make inter-gender comparisons, determined by their degree
of e-equity; b) carry out intra-gender analysis according to the degree of
e-inclusion of each sex; and c) contextualize the results obtained with the
corresponding thirty-one European countries. Furthermore, this transnational
analytical perspective is specified in the ranking of countries that are
used to establish five classification categories according to the level of ICT
use, combined with the degree of existing gender equality.