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November 16, 2005
Kofi Annan's WSIS Speech
Notes from Kofi Annan's opening speech at WSIS:
Two years ago in Geneva, the first phase articulated a vision - a vision of open and inclusive information society. our task here in tunis is to move from diagnosis to deeds.... It must be a summit of solutions. It must lead to the use of ICTs in new ways that will benefit all social classes.... and develop the economies of the poor.
What do we mean by the information society? One where human capacity is built up, liberated with access and the skills to use it effective. The cost of connectivity can be broad down. These bridges to a better life can be universally affordable and accessible. We must summon the will to do it. The information society also depends on networks. If its benefits are to spread around the world, we must promote the same cooperative spirit.
The Internet's very life blood is freedom - allows journalists to do their work and citizens to hold govts accountable. Without this, the information revolution will stall and be stillborn.
By now, we know what the problems are. We now must foster innovation and digital opportunity. The spread of mobile phones in africa have spread entrepreneurship, particularly by women. Doctors have access to medical information, students to research data, relief workers better coordinated relief. The same opportunities can be given to more people in the developing world.
The UN doesn't want to control the Internet... The US deserves thanks for creating the Internet and managing in honorably.... But I think you all acknowledge the need for more international involvement in governance discussions. Let these discussions continue; we in the UN will support this process in every way we can.
There is a tremendous yearning; not for technology per se, but for what technology can make possible. I urge you to take the tangible steps to make this summit a memorable event for advances the causes of dignity, development and peace. Thank you, shukran, shalom alechem.
Posted by acarvin at November 16, 2005 10:36 AM
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