How to avoid fragmenting the Internet; how to ensure the free flow of information in cyberspace; and how to respect the basic human right of freedom of expression on the web are among the crucial issues to be addressed at the first meeting of the Internet Governance Forum in Athens (30 October – 2 November 2006).
The Internet revolution which is enabling so many people from all walks of life to communicate, exchange information and ideas unhindered by geographical, social and cultural divides, offers an unprecedented potential for the development of individuals and communities,” the Director-General of UNESCO, Koïchiro Matsuura, observed.
But, he cautioned: “This potential, which has already improved the lives of so many people around the world, depends on openness and respect for human rights. The Internet will no longer serve its purpose if political issues and technical problems, such as the naming of Internet sites, are used to erect insurmountable barriers across cyberspace, preventing people from exercising their freedom of expression and their free choice in choosing the information they want to share.”
(Source: UNESCO)
The Internet Governance Forum
IGFGreece2006
