By Viviane Reding,
Member of the European Commission, responsible for Information Society and Media
The evolution from an industrial society to an information society holds many promises and challenges: it stimulates the creation of services and the acceleration of knowledge-sharing and encourages broad universal participation. Distinctions based on national or regional borders, social status, opinion, religion, race or language appear to be disappearing: the information society draws everyone closer together.
However, this new society only really includes those who know about it and are in a position to participate in it. If nothing is done, there is a risk that the information society will exclude large numbers of Europeans, more than one in three, whilst entrenching serious and profound inequalities which may ultimately become irreversible. A lot of work remains to be done to overcome digital divides. It is only natural that Europe should promote an information society that is accessible to all by laying solid foundations for e-accessibility. Accessibility of the information society is a key priority. We cannot afford to leave so many citizens behind and lose the potential societal and economic benefits of their full inclusion in the information society.
The information and knowledge channels are multiplying and evolving faster than could ever have been imagined. The production of information and knowledge is becoming increasingly decentralized as each of us is getting involved in the process with growing autonomy. Hence, in this digital era, we need a reference framework, improved rules and structures to ensure that the production and the spread of knowledge and information are accessible to all and may be completed and enhanced by everyone.
Europe actively supports the development of full website accessibility and is encouraging industries to produce user-friendly and standardised electronic devices, accessible digital television, total conversation telecommunications. We also need to get the content right - inclusive public services, subtitling and audio description in programmes, digital competence. The European Union is promoting on-line content developed in a way which secures access for people with disabilities when they surf the internet or watch television and also strongly supports research by funding innovative projects to facilitate the integration of certain groups at risk of exclusion such as people with disabilities, elderly people, people with lower education or lower income.
A horizontal approach to inclusion is being adopted. It seeks to mainstream e-inclusion goals across all relevant policies, improving cooperation and monitoring progress.
When it comes to promoting an information society for all, the European Commission is only one of the actors. We know that the most important results are achieved through cooperation - with stakeholders, Member States and the industry, by sharing good practices, not forgetting the importance of action at local level, close to the intended beneficiaries, in their immediate social context.
An information society that is accessible to all is a societal and economic imperative. With its approach and actions, Europe is contributing actively to its creation.
Last updated: 02.02.2010 © Copyright reserved