Liberating political action

n the digital debate, one voice remains silent: that of the humanists. Despite the fact that the emerging technologies are turning the whole of society on its head, they have yet to take a stance. Discussion continues to be monopolised by scientists, bureaucrats, economists, financiers and lawyers. This absence would not be so worrying if ICTs were merely an instrument to further economic development alone. But that is not the case. They are instilling a fundamental change in the way our societies function, in our relationships with other people and things, our relationship with culture and our perception of politics.

To manage this phenomenon, international fora suggest “public-private partnerships” to foster universal access to the benefits of the knowledge society. This approach remains the best practical way of meeting the challenges of a solidarity-driven information society. However, these “ppp”s will only succeed if they are integrated into a social vision of development.

That is why the contribution of social sciences is indispensable. It is essential for political debate, political action, and a more equitable form of globalisation. In this context, the Lyon Conference where, for the first time, representatives of national governments, the private sector, local authorities and civil society will come together specifically to address the concept of digital solidarity, represents a unique opportunity to promote another kind of development.

It is in this spirit that the DSF welcomes the Senegalese initiative for a new international convention on financing digital solidarity. Let’s make sure we get the humanists involved in this nascent debate.

Alain Clerc , Executive Secretary