Confederation of European Computer User Associations

 

http://fr.amiando.com/JTSMFAH.html?page=1170434&mode=guestView

www.possibles.org

Liege 17 October 2014 - Espace Wallonie

Is internet a common good in Europe?

Internet and social networks play a major role in the every day life of European citizens, they are at the very heart of information, education and training, social relationships, relaxation and work. A sense of opportunity and freedom of expression invites full participation, but the potential dangers, loss of autonomy, domination by unregulated market interests, make people hesitant to fully make use of internet's possibilities. Europe needs a more democratic Internet.

This is why the cyberspace raises multiple issues: which ethical and democratic values should be fostered? What kinds of use should be enabled? When is it safe to share personal data? How can a community spirit be enhanced? What cognitive language should be used for communication?

To provide clear answers to these questions, Eurolinc, Cecua and Semantis, non-profit organizations, and the Monde des possibles, a training institution in Liege, have gathered together a panel of experts to compare perspectives and share their views with the public. The answers leave no room for doubt: Internet is a work in progress and Europeans must stand up for their rights and needs.

With this goal in mind, the European Union has established guidelines and applicable rules: The Charter of fundamental rights, legislation to protect consumer rights, cultural diversity, rules governing competition, equal status for the Union's 24 languages.

We must ensure that these principles are respected and guarantee that European law is applied to Internet governance, on-line services, especially of an educational, cultural and social nature, and further develop rules for the democratic use of Internet networks.

At a time when the new Parliament and Commission are taking up their functions, civil society in Europe should have a greater voice at all levels of the on-going negotiations that will determine our digital future: the Transatlantic free trade treaty, the Data protection directive, internet governance, legislation to ensure respect for cultural diversity, pluralism and multilingualism for equal access to information, education and training.

Digital Europe must set an example and pave the way for a common future where dignity, responsibility, equal rights and justice are values shared by all in a world of peace and solidarity.