Working Group:Information and Communication

In line with the EBC charter the Working Committee Information and Communication concentrates on subjects, problems, practical proposals for solutions and subsequent recommendations to be passed on to governments in the high-tech area of information and communication technology (I&C), especially with the aim to support the OSCE member countries in transition in this field.

The reason for this focus is seen in the enormous speed in technology changes, increase in data volume as well as reduction in costs per data unit for customers, operators and service providers using I&C systems and products challenging the public and politicians to follow.

These changes also influence the need to move away from traditional regulated governmental services towards deregulated, liberalized and privatized I&C markets and services which require adequate political decisions.

The Working Committee Information and Communication provides an ongoing I&C dialogue amongst the EBC members and other interested parties from various OSCE countries. Apart from the political aspect the Working Committee provides the basis to exchange views, first-hand information and business opportunities amongst the East and West European participants, eventually with the aim of the OSCE member countries to improve their economic development also by means of a modern I&C infrastructure.

Meetings are being held about twice a year with ad hoc sessions if and when required. A number of presentations have been provided so far which are listed below and which can be obtained via the EBC Secretariat. The same applies to recommendations as guide lines for governments.

Furthermore the Working Committee has initiated a practical example for a public Internet Community Centre which in the meantime has been opened in the town of Maloyaroslavets in Russia on January 19th, 2001.

EBC members and other interested parties are welcomed to the meetings of the Working Committee Information and Communication.
For further information and/or details please contact the EBC Secretariat.