The governments of the Western Balkan (WB) countries, like all other European governments, arerequired to adapt to the challenges that have emerged in the digital era. Digital citizenship, as rightsand responsibilities, has become integral to a democratic state in this era, necessitating policies andinstitutional designs focused on inclusive digital welfare.

The following paper examines the role of digital inclusion in the WB, utilizing the framework of researcher Jan van Dijk1 for understanding digital inclusion, to assess its influence on digital citizenship. Using the EU’s Digital Society and Economy Index, the Balkan Barometer, and a professional training program, the analysis reveals a discrepancy between high internet access and low digitalinclusion, particularly in digital competence and public digital service usage. Notable variationsamong the WB countries are also explored, alongside EU and regional collaboration. The paperhighlights policy measures for improving digital inclusion, thereby fostering inclusive digital citizenship in the WB. Key policy recommendations include conducting national and regional surveys,establishing citizen centers to support digital inclusion, and designing inclusive, user-friendly public digital services.