E-mail Forum Discussion on the “Future of the Internet”

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The OECD organised a workshop on the "Future of the Internet" on 8 March 2006 in Paris. Workshop participants were encouraged to participate in the email "Forum" discussion that took place from Tuesday 14 to Wednesday 29 March 2006. Contributions to the email discussion on the “Future of the Internet” are posted on this page (at www.oecd.org/sti/ict/FutureInternet). Key issues and ideas emerging out of the workshop and the subsequent email discussion will be a central focus of the OECD’s work going forward.

The following questions try to capture some important issues that were brought forward on March 8th and subsequent discussion:

1. The Internet is now a critical infrastructure and a global platform for communication and commerce. What should be the role of governments in its development and management?
2. The Internet is challenging existing business models. How can we ensure there is sufficient investment to meet the network capacity demands of new applications and of an expanding base of users?
3. Innovation is taking place at the edges of the network. How do we ensure that this continues and how can it be enhanced?
4. The Internet is perceived as not being secure, nor does it protect privacy. What steps should be taken to improve security and privacy and by whom?
5. Ubiquitous networks are being deployed. What are the drivers of these developments? What will be the impacts on individuals and society?

We would welcome your feedback on any additional issues which need further elaboration.