GLOBAL INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE

Global Information Infrastructure involves developing communication framework intended to eventually connect all telecommunication and computer networks worldwide.

Global Information Infrastructure intends to make all electronically stored or transmitted information accessible from anywhere on the planet.

However, for GII to evolve as envisioned, the internet or its successor must deal with challenging issues:

-          Security

-          Privacy

-          Translation

-          Hardware and software compatibility

-          Right to Information

-          Identity management

-          Competition

-          Digital rights management (DRM)

-          Governance

Global Information Infrastructure can be defined as a seamless web of interactive communications being deployed at worldwide level to provide the infrastructure for new services and activities based on the strategic use of all types of information.

The world community will need to adapt accordingly in all political, economic, social and cultural dimensions, thus establishing the basis of the new Global Information Society (GIS).

The development of GII – GIS depends on international collaboration. The principles first emerged at the G7 Ministerial Conference on GIS in Brussels in 1995. The conclusions drawn were:

-          Promoting dynamic competition

-          Encouraging private investment

-          Defining an adaptable regulatory framework

-          Providing open access to networks

While

-          Ensuring universal provision of and access to services

-          Promoting equality of opportunity to citizens

-          Promoting diversity of content, including cultural and linguistic diversity

-          Recognizing the necessity of worldwide cooperation with particular attention to less developed countries.

Governments will play a catalytic role in research, education, training and procurement. They should promote strategic Research and Development programs, launch user-oriented pilot projects and promotional activities, provide test-beds for experimentation, promote international cooperation.

GII Issues

1.       Market and Product Competition – Open international competition among countries and among providers of information, products and services. Thus the government has to eliminate restrictions on cross-sector services, modify existing policies, maintain transparency in regulations.

2.       Electronic Commerce and Digital Payments – This will lead to new types of markets and electronic commerce practices. Security required for electronic payments must not be misused to serve other ends that would threaten domestic and international security. This should not prevent legitimate control of financial flows by government.

3.       Interconnection, Open Access, Interoperability and Standards – Set standards that foster interconnection and interoperability. Open access should take place within a framework which guards against risks. Competition may be preceded by cooperation.

4.       Universal Service – Geographic access, affordable access, quality of services and tariffs for services. (e.g. Medical areas)