European Commission Communication "A Digital Agenda for Europe"
- 19/05/2010The European Commission published its Communication “A Digital Agenda for Europe” on 19.05.2010. It covers one of the emblematic initiatives of the European EU2020 strategy which is intended to continue European policies for the Information Society, succeeding the i2010 – A European Information Society for Growth and Employment initiative. (2005-2010).
The general goal of the Digital Agenda is to extract sustainable economic and social benefits from a digital single market, based on fast and ultra-fast Internet and interoperable applications.
The areas for action put forward by the Commission for the Digital Agenda are as follows and include, among others, the actions indicated:
- A dynamic digital single market
Open access to content
Simplify online and cross-border transactions
Create confidence in digital technology
Strengthen the single market in telecommunication services - Interoperability and standards
Improve standardisation in the ICT area
Encourage better use of standards
Improve interoperability through cooperation - Confidence and security
Implement a strengthened, high-level policy as regards network and information security, including modernisation of ENISA and the creation of a CERT for EU institutions
Fight cyber attacks on I.T. systems - Fast and ultra-fast access to the Internet
Ensure broadband has universal coverage and increasingly faster speeds
Encourage the installation of New Generation Networks(NGN)
Monitor implementation of provisions on the Internet’s open and neutral character - Research and innovation
Increase R&D activity and efficiency in ICT
Boost innovation in ICT taking advantage of the single market
Support initiatives in the ICT sector for open innovation
Induce more private investment through pre-commercial procurement and public-private partnerships
Simplify access to EU funds for ICT research, making them more attractive to SMEs and young researchers
Develop a new generation of Internet-based applications and services - Improve digital literacy, qualifications in this area and inclusion in the digital society
Promote literacy and digital qualifications
Develop instruments to identify and recognise professional and user ICT competences
Stimulate development and supply of inclusive digital services - Benefits provided by ICT to society in the EU
Stimulate ICT use in protecting the environment
Boost ICT-based sustainable health care and support for dignified and independent living
Promote cultural diversity and creative content
Expand online government, especially ensuring mutual recognition of electronic identification and authentication in the EU, the creation of cross-border online services, and interconnection of public procurement capabilities in the single market
Speed up adoption of intelligent transport systems and greater mobility - International aspects of the Digital Agenda
Ensure Europe plays a leading international role as regards the Internet
Work with third countries to improve conditions for the international trade in digital goods and services