Why should political parties use technology?

People from protected groups can face barriers in accessing face to face party activities. This might be because the events are held in the evening which can exclude members carrying out caring roles (disproportionately women) or perhaps because an event is difficult to access for wheelchair users. Using technology to connect with members can overcome some of these barriers and make your activities and politics more inclusive. Digital methods can be particularly useful for local parties in rural areas where members might live large distances from each other.

Holding a range of in person and online events is a positive statement about your commitment to equality and diversity and you may already use online platforms to hold meetings or stream your conference. However, online space can replicate or even exacerbate the barriers that women, minority ethnic, disabled and LGBTI people already face when engaging in political activities and discussion. Whilst few people deliberately want to exclude others from political engagement, it is important for your party to take steps in overcoming barriers around digital exclusion.

Go back to the Online Activities homepage