A single objective: success!

Less than a year after the Tunis Summit, the first projects launched by the DSF are demonstrating the value of the community-based approach to bridging the digital divide.

Whereas the industrial society developed above all by way of its production poles (metallurgy, chemistry, textiles, etc.), the great strength of the information society is its ability to transform every field of activity, right down to the individual. In so doing, it strengthens the role of the small and medium enterprises, which are today the bedrock of economic growth. It serves as an ideal way to ensure employment outside the main centres of activity, with optimum use of skills and the potential to reduce migration.

The DSF pilot projects are the living proof of this. The Fund is thus encouraged to pursue its combat, by renewing its call to all economic and political stakeholders. First a call to public authorities, and especially to local collectivities, requesting them to implement the 1% digital solidarity principle without delay, an approach which, according to the Brasilian Foreign Minister, «is already bearing fruit». Next, a call to businesses, for here they have an opportunity to join in a truly participative information society. Finally, a call to the national and multilateral financing institutions, with the request to support DSF’s projects.

These initial successes have inspired us at the Fund to revamp its presentation: a more attractive newsletter, and, coming soon, a new website. The summer recess is coming to a close, and it’s time to get down to work!

Alain Clerc, Executive Secretary