Digital citizenship for health: A youth-authored series for PLOS Digital Health

Digital technologies are reshaping health globally, but without equity and participation, many risk being left behind. Digital citizenship for health (DC4H) goes beyond access - it empowers people, especially youth, to shape the systems defining their futures.

This youth-authored collection is a collaboration between PLOS Digital Health and DTH-Lab and shares global perspectives on DC4H in practice. Authors stress that technology alone cannot improve health outcomes. Progress depends on digital, health, and civic literacy, trust in institutions, and inclusive governance that amplifies all voices.

Young contributors show how DC4H tackles urgent challenges: bridging the digital divide in low- and middle-income countries, fostering confidence in digital health platforms, and ensuring policies reflect diverse realities. They argue youth must be partners in design, policy, and decision-making—not passive users.

By centering youth perspectives, this collection underscores why DC4H is essential for equitable, democratic, and sustainable health futures.

Image Credit: Gathering of friends by pressfoto, Freepik