Topics for debate at the Global Forum 2009

Most recent trends indicate that the environments of the future will be dominated by digital content. For example, interactive digital television is quickly becoming habitual for consumers, especially those under the age of 35. The authorities have observed this fact and have taken specific measures. The European Parliament adopted a  resolution regarding the interoperability of interactive I digital television services. However, the best framework for digital content has not yet been decided upon.

Regulating the internet raises many problems, as stricter laws are required and content must be constantly updated and consolidated. Internet-related litigation is also subject to difficulties, as there is no law clearly mentioning what country has jurisdiction over online problems. Moreover, cooperation for preventing and reducing cybernetic criminality and online terrorism is difficult, due to the different approaches adopted by the U.S. and China.

According to specialists, the current internet meets older needs, such as e-mail, social networks, and video conferencing, and will have to be adjusted to respond to the new client demands. Tomorrow’s internet will make more use of the variety of audiovisual and communication environments for multiple purposes, such as online learning, online conferencing, entertainment, libraries, electronic books, talks, electronic trade, ehealth, e-governing, etc.

A digital city means creating a complex portal, to include all useful information and electronic services for citizens and companies. Unfortunately, Romania is the last country in Europe with no e-governance system, to allow the population and enterprises to interact with public authorities through an IT platform. Officials of the Ministry of Communications and Information Society (MCSI) say the first stage of implementation of the e-governance system, e-Romania, has already been initiated.