Current studies show that so far, a large number of groups and individuals from all social classes have shown either little or no interest in using the Internet. However, the Internet already plays a key role in many business and work processes today, and its importance will continue to grow in the future. It has also become an integral part of education and training. It is therefore crucial that we work to prevent a situation where our society is divided into those individuals integrated into modern business and work processes and those who lack the requisite professional and social skills. There are no easy answers here, but there are ways and methods that appear feasible for overcoming the digital divide.

The first phase of the Internet was marked by a focus on providing net access, and much has been accomplished in this respect over the past few years. Now, in the second phase, the main goal is to ensure that as many people as possible are actually able to use the media effectively. Key issues here are user-friendly and secure hardware and software, utility of content, and reasonable costs. However, it still remains the case that people unlikely to gain anything of personal practical use from the Internet will not be persuaded to set up a private connection, regardless of how inexpensive such a connection might be. A more promising approach would be to promote the creation of an "Internet-friendly" environment and to provide content that is targeted at specific groups. In the end, people from underrepresented or disadvantaged social groups will only be prepared to allow the Internet into their daily lives if it can provide them with real utility and information, e.g. communicate with peers, help them with their work, offer them the opportunity to obtain further education and training.

This is an area where government, business, special interest groups and associations can become active. The government can contribute to the creation of a dynamic digital environment that supports varied entrepreneurial activity and enables it to thrive. The development and implementation of exemplary applications can encourage citizens to view the Internet as a useful medium. Finally, public-private partnerships and the active participation of various social groups and associations can foster the development of strategies that will allow the Internet to contribute to a better quality of life over the long term.

The conference "Internet for All - Equal Opportunities on the Net", which was jointly organised by the Burda Academy of the Third Millennium and the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, presents international best practice projects, European programmes, and national developments. Workshops will allow the public to actively participate in the discussions and present their own views. An extensive exhibition of projects clearly demonstrates that many good approaches have been developed in Germany as well as in other European countries and the U.S. The job now is to work together on improving and implementing such approaches.

All those who are dedicated to bridging the digital divide will find it very interesting to see which specific factors are important for the success of the individual projects and which strategies can be used to overcome obstacles and barriers. The presentations and discussions at the conference will provide decision-makers from all levels and sectors with a variety of inspiring ideas for new projects as well as methods for improving those already under way.

Christa Maar
President of the Burda Academy of the Third Millennium