A staggering 97% of young people aged 16–29 in the European Union now use the internet daily, according to the latest statistics released by Eurostat in July 2025. This near-universal connectivity among EU youths—an increase from 87% just a decade ago—carries important lessons for developing digital literacy and inclusivity in Thailand, where similar trends are emerging but at different rates and with different challenges. The findings reflect both how deeply digital technology has become embedded in young Europeans’ lives and how the gap between youth and the broader population is narrowing, raising questions about digital readiness in the wider Thai community as the kingdom embraces its own digital transformation.
The significance of these numbers extends beyond simple connectivity. For Thai society, where internet penetration has been the subject of intense policy focus, such data illuminate the potential impacts on education, employment, and culture. With 88% of the general EU population now using the internet daily compared to just 63% in 2014, digital engagement is quickly becoming the expected norm, not the exception—a scenario Thailand is fast approaching, especially in urban regions but with persistent lag in rural areas.
Eurostat’s analysis details that young people are not just passive consumers online. About 88% of 16–29-year-olds in the EU actively participate in social network activities—creating user profiles, posting messages, and sharing content—compared to 65% for the general population. Countries like Czechia lead the continent, with 99% of young people engaging in social networks, showing the extent to which digital interaction defines youth culture. In contrast, France lags at 70%, with Italy, Germany, Slovakia, and Bulgaria also reporting comparatively lower figures (ranging from 80% to 84%) (Eurostat).
For Thai policymakers and educators, these statistics underscore the critical role of the internet in youth development, from expanding educational resources to fostering civic participation and digital creativity. “Digital connectivity is fundamental for youth empowerment and future competitiveness,” notes a senior official at the Thai Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, reflecting on the EU data. “However, the challenge is in ensuring equitable access and digital literacy, especially for vulnerable groups outside major cities.” Indeed, Thailand’s 2023 National Statistical Office report noted over 95% daily internet use among urban youth, but the percentage drops to below 70% in some rural provinces (NSO Thailand).
Social media activity among EU youths provides another important lens. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become primary channels for communication, social activism, and cultural exchange, amplifying youth voices and shaping public discourse. Similar patterns are evident in Thailand, where social media activism has influenced issues ranging from education reform to political participation (Bangkok Post). “Digital platforms offer young people a democratic space that was previously unavailable to them,” observes a researcher at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Communication Arts. But experts caution that digital citizenship must be paired with digital literacy to combat misinformation and protect privacy.
Historically, Thailand’s digital divide stems from differences in household income, geographic location, and access to infrastructure. While the government has invested in expanding broadband networks and implementing the Thailand 4.0 initiative to increase digital literacy and competitiveness, there remain pockets of exclusion in rural and border areas (Ministry of Education Thailand). Compared to the EU, where internet access is approaching universality even in less populated regions, Thailand’s efforts need to address both infrastructure and the “second-level digital divide”—variation in skills and meaningful usage, not just connectivity (UNESCO Bangkok).
Looking ahead, how internet use among Thai youths develops will have profound implications for the country’s future workforce, political landscape, and cultural engagement. As seen in the EU, the internet is not only a gateway to economic participation but also a tool for lifelong learning and social cohesion. The lessons from Europe suggest that narrowing the gap between youths and the broader population is possible with sustained investment in both infrastructure and skills training.
There is also a cautionary note. With increased internet use comes the responsibility to educate about digital ethics, media literacy, and safe online behavior. Privacy breaches, cyberbullying, and misinformation are global challenges. For Thai educators, incorporating media literacy into the school curriculum is essential. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has begun piloting digital literacy modules in selected schools, but much more needs to be done to ensure these efforts reach all youth, regardless of background (Thai PBS). Collaboration with parents and community leaders will be crucial in shaping responsible online citizenship.
For everyday Thais, the key takeaway is clear: support youth in accessing high-quality internet, and encourage engagement in digital literacy—whether at home, in school, or through extracurricular activities. Parents should talk to their children about online safety while teachers can leverage digital tools to make learning more interactive. Communities must advocate for expanded connectivity and public digital education programs, particularly in underserved areas.
To stay ahead, Thailand should continue tracking internet usage trends, promote inclusive access, and design policies to harness the full potential of connectivity for youth development. The EU’s experience provides a roadmap, showing that universal digital engagement is achievable but requires a multisectoral effort and constant attention to new challenges.
For further information on the EU statistics and to compare with Thailand’s digital landscape, readers are encouraged to consult sources such as Eurostat, NSO Thailand, and UNESCO Bangkok.