Digitalisation in the lives of urban migrants

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As migration to urban centers and digitalization increasingly shape development cooperation, understanding their interaction is vital. Information communication technologies (ICTs) can facilitate migrants' integration through e-government programs and social networks that assist in finding housing and employment. To explore ICT usage among urban migrants, we conducted a survey in Bogota, comparing long-term residents, short-term residents, and Venezuelan migrants. A key finding was that the duration of time spent in a neighborhood significantly influences internet access for migrants, independent of economic and social factors. Initially, migrants may have less access to ICTs, but as they remain in a neighborhood longer, their access improves, often surpassing that of their neighbors. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding e-government services, which citizens typically engage with infrequently. Migrants may not access these services at all. Development organizations must invest in education and outreach to ensure vulnerable populations are aware of e-government services and their benefits. The data from Bogota suggests that with early engagement and support for basic needs like housing and identification, development and humanitarian agencies can enhance migrants' access to ICTs and e-government platforms.