ICC/BASIS intervention to the 23 May 2007 meeting of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD)

We very much appreciate this opportunity to speak to the Commission on Science, Technology for Development as you address your substantive theme of “Promoting the building of a people-centric, developmentoriented and inclusive Information Society, with a view to enhancing digital opportunities for all people”

Many of the recommendations and comments above outline ways to effectively include business and other stakeholders in meetings. Other stakeholders, who are
not members of the CSTD, can best contribute if they understand the input and perspectives of member representatives from governments. Thus the ability for other stakeholders to be present during discussions amongst the CSTD members is vital.

Business and other stakeholders can make the most constructive contributions to the discussions in the CSTD if they have the opportunity to intervene on each agenda item as it comes up instead of, for instance, only being given the opportunity to provide general statements during one period.

In summary, Mr Chairman, the ICC/BASIS is pleased to be here on behalf of business. We welcome the initial steps that the ECOSOC and CSTD have taken to promote participation and contributions by all stakeholders in your efforts and have offered a number of Recommendations for your consideration going forward. We look forward to working with all of you to promote the achievement of the Millennium Declaration Goals and to bring the benefits of the Information Society to all.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.