Brussels, 03/01/2012 (Agence Europe) - On 22 December, the European Commission published its most recent digital strategy progress report for 2011. This document evaluates the degree of digital agenda implementation into the different pillars since its adoption in March 2010. It also identifies what stages require further work over the next 12-24 months, if the objectives set out are to be attained. One of the objectives involves ensuring that information and communication technology help towards creating sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
In the context of setting up a single digital content market (first pillar), the progress achieved has been mixed. Efforts still need to be made in the area of collective copyright management, strengthening intellectual property rights, audiovisual content, the management of orphan works and reusing public sector information. In the area of e-commerce, growth is occurring rapidly but it is starting off from a very low basis. An action plan for stimulating growth in this area is expected to be unveiled at the beginning of 2012. Several areas of action are also expected to be undertaken to help consolidate consumer confidence in the e-commerce field.
With regard to the completion of the single telecoms services market, a regulation on roaming is expected to be adopted. This is the third of this kind and helps towards completing implementation of the new regulatory framework in the telecommunications area.
Progress in the field of inter-operability and standards (second pillar) has been good. Every member state is expected to set up a national inter-operability framework, in an effort to prevent fragmentation and help individuals and companies take full advantage of the single market.
There has been progress under the “third pillar” (confidence and security), but more work is needed to protect computer networks from rapidly evolving cybercrime. Attention will focus on online banking and protecting children from sexploitation and other ills.
On the “fourth pillar” (fast and ultra fast internet speeds), some progress has been made recently. Member states are required to continue work on broadband access in the countryside and areas of low population density. On the “fifth pillar” (research and innovation), progress is ongoing to meet the long-term targets in this domain. This year and next will be crucial for boosting aid for research and innovation in the EU's new multiannual budget (currently being drawn up), along with aid for information technology and communications in the next European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation. Good progress is being made in digital literacy as part of the sixth pillar. In 2012, the Commission will publish indicators for measuring improvements in digital literacy. Member states must introduce suitable policies for helping inhabitants expand their digital skills. There is mixed progress in the use of new technology for the benefit of society (the “seventh pillar”), but several measures are planned to ensure ITC enhances daily life in 2012-2015. For example, computer technology will be used to cut fuel bills and reduce the negative impact of human beings on the environment. Likewise for e-health, which is expected to rein in escalating healthcare costs due to Europe's ageing population. The process of putting the European Library online is continuing, but member states need to do more to help put art and culture online. Work is ongoing to expand e-government and smart transport systems. The final pillar (number eight) covers international issues like global governance of the internet and online trade. The European Union will be expanding talks with other countries on updating existing international agreements and ensuring joint international management of the web. (IL/transl.fl)