The first theme is “fuelling creativity”. Discussions at the meeting will ask how to: ensure that the appropriate infrastructures and frameworks are in place to encourage research, enable innovation and underpin new cooperative models for growth and employment; provide maximum access to public sector information and content and its re-use by the private sector; and enhance the value of e-science in innovation policy and in the OECD’s innovation strategy.

“Building confidence” is the second theme. The Internet cannot expand without the public’s confidence in it. Governments need to work collectively to formulate effective practices and policies to ensure the security of the Internet and of critical information infrastructures, that will include combating malicious software commonly known as “malware”. The conference will also consider policies to empower consumers online, to ensure fair mobile commerce transactions, and to combat fraud. How to protect and manage digital identities will also absorb attention, as will discussions on stepping up multi-stakeholder, cross-border cooperation for privacy, security and consumer protection.

The third theme of the conference is “benefiting from convergence”. Once-separate network platforms for data, voice and video are converging to a single platform based on the Internet protocol. This is resulting in a range of new services, re-evaluation of business models and changing levels of competition in formerly distinct markets. Policymakers must therefore consider several issues, such as: overarching principles needed for convergence and the transition to the generation of high speed networks; guidance to help consumers navigate the transition towards a converged network while stimulating competition; plus opportunities and challenges.

For more information, please visit www.oecd.org/futureinternet or www.oecdministerialseoul2008.org

©OECD Observer No 268 June 2008

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