Sending an email, filling out an online form, booking an appointment—these everyday tasks feel second nature to many people. But for others, they can be a real struggle. According to France’s national statistics office (INSEE), around 17% of the population is affected by digital illiteracy. And the challenge is even greater in rural areas, where the figure rises to 22%. INSEE also reports that 28% of internet users have low digital skills, meaning they struggle in one or more key areas such as finding information, communicating online, using software, protecting personal data, or solving problems on the web. Because digital inclusion isn’t just about having a connection. It’s also about skills, confidence, and independence. In a world where nearly everything happens online – from administrative processes and education to work and healthcare – not knowing how to use digital tools can quickly become a major driver of social exclusion. 

Significant barriers remain 

On paper, high-speed broadband is expanding fast. On the ground, the picture is more uneven. Some areas still don’t have access to fiber, and even where network coverage is strong, digital tools can remain confusing or intimidating for part of the population. According to the 2025 Digital Barometer, nearly one in two people in France (44%) struggles to complete administrative tasks online. Lack of equipment, high costs, or simply falling behind digitally all play a role. Older adults, isolated young people, job seekers, and those facing financial hardship are often the most affected. Faced with these challenges, 32% of people say they would like free support to learn digital skills, yet only 10% have actually received it. A clear signal that guidance and hands-on support are now essential to closing the digital divide. 

Orange is here

At Orange, we work every day to make digital technology a source of empowerment rather than exclusion. Across the country, including in some of the most remote areas, our approach is built around three clear priorities: connecting, training, and supporting.

• Connecting: As fiber and 5G continue to roll out, it’s easy to forget that 4G remains the most widely used network in France, especially in rural areas. Since its launch in 2013, Orange’s 4G network has expanded steadily and now covers 99.5% of mainland France. It’s the backbone of connectivity in rural communities, reaching 99% of towns with fewer than 5,000 residents.
   
• Training: Through our free, open-to-all digital workshops, thousands of people are learning how to use digital tools from safe browsing to data protection and using smartphones and online services more confidently. These sessions take place close to home, in cafés, community centers, public service hubs, and local associations. Since 2021, more than 223,000 people in France have benefited from this hands-on digital learning.
   
• Supporting: We also rely on strong local partnerships to expand our reach. That includes working with France Travail to support job seekers who are furthest from digital tools, and with Groupe SOS, which uses Orange’s learning materials in training sessions held in cafés across rural towns in the “1000 cafés” network. Participants learn practical skills like creating an email address, filing tax returns online, or applying for jobs. By the end of 2025, 25,000 people are expected to receive support through this program. Orange also backs networks like Rural Mouv, which set up digital mediation points in rural areas.

What’s next?

Closing the rural digital divide isn’t a one-off project. It’s a long-term commitment. That’s why Orange is focused on making its actions sustainable and deeply rooted locally: training local trainers, building long-lasting digital hubs, and working more closely with local elected officials. The challenge now is to scale these approaches, share best practices, and co-build solutions with local communities. Because real impact happens close to home, whether in towns, villages, and low-density areas. Inclusive digital access doesn’t happen by decree. It grows over time. And Orange intends to keep playing its role as a catalyst, so no one is left behind.