The Institute of Sociology at the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences is a member of the prestigious international DIGI-net network, coordinated by Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic). DIGI-net focuses on the impact of digitalisation on labour market inequalities in later life. Across Europe, labour markets are undergoing a digital transformation influenced by information technology, robotics, artificial intelligence, and automation. However, the level of digitalization varies significantly between European countries. At the same time, the proportion of workers aged 50 and over who remain in the workforce longer than in the past is increasing. Despite this, there is still a notable lack of research on how digitalization affects older employees. DIGI-net seeks to address this complex issue through comprehensive research.
The main aim and objective of the COST Action CA21107 is to overcome critical gaps in conceptual innovation on the influence of digitalization on work inequalities in later life, in order to address the research-policy disconnect and tackle work inequalities in later life redefined by digitalization in Europe. The project brings together over 400 researchers from 44 countries. It is led by Professor Martina Rašticová of Mendel University (Chair) and Professor Petia Genkova of Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences (Vice-Chair). At the Institute of Sociology of the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences, the project is represented by Dr. Sarmitė Mikulionienė and Dr. Sandra Krutulienė.
Key activities include organizing at least three international events each year, such as Management Committee meetings, doctoral schools, and forums for policy-makers. The COST action also supports short-term scientific missions and provides grants for independent research and attendance at conferences. Expected outcomes include scientific publications, policy briefs, and two open-access monographs. Dr. Mikulionienė and Dr. Krutulienė are active contributors, currently working on an article and a chapter for the upcoming book.
Research is conducted across five working groups, focusing on digitalization and inequality, age-inclusive organizational cultures, the health of older workers, policy development and implementation, and engagement with social, corporate, and news media. The Action also features a Young Researchers and Innovators Forum and a Reference Group of Older Workers.
For more information, please visit the project website at www.digineteu.eu and the Institute of Sociology’s page at https://lstc.lt/en/international/.
Photo from a COST Action CA21107 working meeting was kindly shared by Dr. Sarmitė Mikulionienė.
