Geneva, 17 November 2004

To press and media representatives

Press release of the Administrative Council



Digital Solidarity Fund : The City of Geneva takes action

On 1st January 2005, the City of Geneva, founding member of the Digital Solidarity Fund, will adopt the « Geneva Principle », whereby public authorities (and possibly private companies) decide to introduce a digital solidarity clause in their calls for bids pertaining to the purchase of ICT equipments and services. This digital solidarity clause requires the company that obtains the market to contribute 1% of the total amount of the transaction, paid on its profit margin, to the Digital Solidarity Fund.

In December 2003, the cities of Geneva and Lyon, and the Province of Turin decided to create the Digital Solidarity Fund, making up for nation States reservations on the issue. Today, the initiative draws the attention of the whole international community. The question is high on the next G8 agenda, expected to discuss a report commissioned by France and presenting existing and potential initiatives in the field of international development aid. The financing mechanism proposed by the Digital Solidarity Fund is well placed within this context.

Not surprisingly, the City of Geneva was to set the example. It is a done deed since last week, when the Administrative Council decided to implement the « Geneva Principle ». By adopting this measure, the City of Geneva commits to actively participate in the international effort to bridge the digital divide. The news was to be disclosed on 17 November, at the inaugural ceremony of the Fund. However, the event was postponed to a later date, due to the Ivorian crisis and the urgent mobilisation of several African Heads of States expected to attend the inauguration.

Nevertheless, the decision taken by the City of Geneva and its coming into force as of 1st January represents an important achievement. Today, many local authorities worldwide, cities and regional governments, as well as nation States and private companies are studying the modalities of implementing this commitment. Thanks to last week’s decision, the Geneva spirit, mentioned in formal speeches on so many occasions, has now found a concrete application at the service of international development.

It is a first step that should be followed by many other local authorities. Indeed, this is the first condition if the Fund is to grow, and answer the needs of the very many citizens, both from the South and the East, and even from industrialised countries, who still do not benefit from the development of the information society.

For additional information :
Digital Solidarity Fund Foundation
Tel : 022 979 32 50 / E-mail: secretariat@dsf-fsn.org