Sunday, March 12, 2006
Beyond China and Internet Gang of Four
This:
There are over 500 customers for Microsoft in Zimbabwe, as the country’s business systems are one of the most efficiently managed on the continent.
[..]
Software products have become so integral in business management as they enhance efficiency and allow critical financial, manufacturing, distribution, customer management, supply chain and e-commerce data to be rolled into one streamline solution.
Increased investments into ICT programmes into Africa in general and Zimbabwe in particular could help in bridging the digital divide that has caused fundamental administrative problems, especially for business.
And this:
One of our most laudable national goals is the export of free speech and free information, yet American companies are selling censorship.
While some advocates of technology rights have proposed consumer boycotts and Congressional action to pressure these firms into responsible conduct, a good first step would be adding filtering technologies to the United States Munitions List, an index of products for which exporters have to file papers with the State Department. While this won't end such sales, it will bring them to light and give the public and lawmakers a better basis on which to consider stronger steps.
If American companies are already obligated to disclose the sale of bombs and guns to repressive regimes, why not censorware?
¶ Sunday, March 12, 2006
There are over 500 customers for Microsoft in Zimbabwe, as the country’s business systems are one of the most efficiently managed on the continent.
[..]
Software products have become so integral in business management as they enhance efficiency and allow critical financial, manufacturing, distribution, customer management, supply chain and e-commerce data to be rolled into one streamline solution.
Increased investments into ICT programmes into Africa in general and Zimbabwe in particular could help in bridging the digital divide that has caused fundamental administrative problems, especially for business.
And this:
One of our most laudable national goals is the export of free speech and free information, yet American companies are selling censorship.
While some advocates of technology rights have proposed consumer boycotts and Congressional action to pressure these firms into responsible conduct, a good first step would be adding filtering technologies to the United States Munitions List, an index of products for which exporters have to file papers with the State Department. While this won't end such sales, it will bring them to light and give the public and lawmakers a better basis on which to consider stronger steps.
If American companies are already obligated to disclose the sale of bombs and guns to repressive regimes, why not censorware?
¶ Sunday, March 12, 2006
