The Paradox of Progress and Accessibility

Ableism and Neoliberalism in Iceland’s Digital Transformation Policies

Dados Bibliográficos

ID24021580
AutoresInga Björk Margrétar Bjarnadóttir (0009-0005-0655-9571, University of Iceland), Ingólfur Ásgeir Jóhannesson (0000-0002-8212-5944, University of Iceland), Laufey Löve (0000-0001-7776-5632, University of Iceland)
Ano2026
Volume6
Fascículo2
Data de publicação2026-01-01
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoInternational Journal of Disability and Social Justice (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 2732-4036 • E-ISSN: 2732-4044
EditoraPluto Journals (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.13169/intljofdissocjus.6.2.0003
OpenAlexW7172327878
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas28

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, it is crucial to keep track of the progress of digital transformation and its impact on marginalized communities. This study examines Icelandic governmental digital policies through historical discourse analysis, exploring the ways in which digital transformation initiatives are conceptualized within a neoliberal rationality that emphasizes efficiency, competitiveness, and individuality and how this aligns with the rights and needs of disabled people. The analysis reveals that digital policies lack inclusivity and discussion on equitable access. The policies operate within the historical conjuncture of ableism, neoliberal rationality, and human rights, where human rights are subordinate. This highlights significant challenges in incorporating a commitment to human rights within digital transformation, which frequently falls short of addressing the rights and needs of disabled people.

Ableism · Digital economy · Digital Rights · Digital transformation · Governmentality · Human rights · Neoliberalism (international relations) · Rationality · Disability Rights and Representation · Social Media and Politics · Technology Use by Older Adults