Lorne Bradley Neudorf

It was a positive step for the United Nations to include non-governmental organizations as part of the first phase of the World Summit on the Information Society. However, it was unfortunate to see their limited inclusion in the mindset of those ultimately responsible for the development of the information society. The laudable concept of bridging the digital divide between the wealthy and developing nations was mitigated by the seemingly unrealistic approach adopted by governments. Appealing for funds and discussing lofty ideals, many delegations missed a timely opportunity to reach out to civil society and non-governmental organizations to begin planning specific and concrete projects to help them achieve their goals.

Speakers at the summit correlated nearly every imaginable positive social and health characteristic to the widespread use of technology. But perhaps the fundamental statistical rule that correlation does not equal causation was overlooked. It is unrealistic to assume that simply shipping computers to a developing country will result in a dramatic increase of the population's life expectancy - yet this is exactly the message that was too often conveyed. As a result, three major issues preserving the digital divide escaped thorough discussion.

The first issue is time. Information systems and technological devices require a person's intimate involvement in order to provide a benefit. Many of the developing nations of the world possess economies that do not afford the population dispensable time during the course of the day. Those in the poorest regions charged with the duties of obtaining basic necessities such as food and clean drinking water do not have time available for learning or using new technology. In Maslow's famous hierarchy of needs, the need to know and understand appears in the pyramid well above physiological and safety needs. This is an issue that is primarily dependant upon governments to address through economic reforms, the development of effective social programs, and adequate educational opportunities. Non-governmental organizations can also play a strong role because of their experience developing effective projects in education and family care. Individuals will only have the necessary time to benefit from the information society when their basic needs are met.

Secondly, essential skills training must be provided to new users of communication systems and devices. For example, the value of electronic learning techniques cannot be realized until students have the knowledge and skills necessary to use the computer and its application software. Effective training includes a clear explanation of the benefits of the technology presented in the regional dialect, preferably by a local instructor. Training must demonstrate how technology can be integrated into the daily lives of the students within the context of their specific environment and culture. Non-governmental organizations are highly successful in developing skills training projects and can assist in integrating technology training into basic elementary education.

Lastly, infrastructure must be in place. As the underlying foundation for the devices driving the information society, basic infrastructure is as important as the technology itself. Without integrated communication networks or reliable power grids, regions will continue to be isolated from the benefits of the digital world. Moreover, basic infrastructure includes schools for educating children. As demonstrated in rural regions of the Sichuan Province of China, educational facilities can offer additional benefits by doubling as vocational training centers for adults during evenings and weekends. Civil society and non-governmental organizations can play a key role in this area, partnering with local companies and organizations to develop these critically important infrastructure projects.

The summit entertained a stimulating dialogue about the information society and helped focus governments and organizations on the common goal of bridging the digital divide. However, it is unfortunate that government delegations simply promoted technology instead of taking the first step toward achieving their goals. Their failure to forge partnerships and develop country-specific projects with civil society and non-governmental organizations is regrettable as these organizations can help address major issues that persist. 2005 will provide another opportunity for all stakeholders to begin implementing the work to overcome the obstacles continuing to keep the digital divide an unfortunate reality.

Lorne Bradley Neudorf is educated in computer science and law. He has worked as communications director for an international non-governmental organization in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.