Background
Issues relating to the development of the Internet are gaining in importance politically, culturally, economically, industrially and when it comes to security. In 2030, 20% of global GDP will come from Internet economy. The transnational nature of the Internet and the strategic nature of these issues require that they be explored and coordinated at international level in close connection with all those working in the sector.
There are several international bodies that monitor and manage the development of the Internet including:
- The International Telecommunications Union (UTI), a specialized United Nations Agency that aims to enable the growth and sustained development of
telecommunications and information networks, and to facilitate universal access so that people everywhere can participate in, and benefit from, the information society and global
economy.
- The Internet Governance Forum which was established after the United Nations World Summit on the Information Society in Tunis in 2005.
- The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a private non-profit association created in 1998 under Californian law to manage the name and
address system, define the principles governing it and accredit registrars.
At European level, initiatives have been taken to develop the Internet economy and protect consumers. They are fully in line with the Europe 2020 strategy.
The G8 is particularly legitimate in addressing Internet-related issues. The economies of G8 countries are dependent on communication infrastructures and are where the largest companies of the Internet economy have been founded.
Objectives of the French presidency of the G8
The French presidency wishes to promote global reflection on Internet-related issues and its future. This means exploring the role that government can play in supporting developments in the sector and in creating the conditions for fair development that promotes growth of the digital economy, dissemination of information technologies and communication while ensuring citizens' protection.
In Deauville, the G8 Heads of State and Government will have an in-depth discussion for the first time on a wide range of Internet issues.
The French presidency will make every effort to ensure that the G8's work on this issue is alimented by consultations and contributions from all those concerned: enterprises, French and international experts (Internet pioneers, scientists, intellectuals), and civil society. The French presidency will also hold a meeting for the major Internet stakeholders on the eve of the Deauville Summit. It will provide substance for the discussions of the Heads of State and Government.
|
