Question: In a number of African countires, the regulators have been seen as stumblimg block rahter than enablers of technology What strategy are the nominees going to adopt/adapt to overcome this major hindrance in ICT development in the region

Nominee Replies

Nii Quaynor - posted on 2000-09-28 09:08:47 There is always some suspicion between operators and regulators which is reflected in the question. With respect to the subject at hand, ICANN, its standards and policies are developed through consensus processes by its supporting organizations. The consensus based methods ensures that known or identified interests of Africa, an emerging Internet community, are not overlooked if we are sufficiently active. Africans must participate actively in ICANN to meke that happen. In the general telecommunication sector, where your question is focussed, we note that its not unusual for regulatory practices to lag behind the advancement of fast changing technologies. Hence the opportunity is in knowledge transfer from industry to regulators and a good dialog to avoid regulation becoming a hindrance in ICT development. Calvin Browne - posted on 2000-09-27 05:28:41 Regulators implement political will. This is either Internet friendly or not. ICANN should ensure that the only impediment to Internet Development in any country can only be political. Then its up to the Country to change their politicians. Helping to educate regulators is also a good idea. I've been responsible for representations to the South Africa regulator for now defunct reasons in the past. If regulators want to open a dialogue to discuss policy issues, I'm not adverse to talking to most people. In the meantime, make sure your politicians know about ICANN activities and get them to GAC meetings! Alan Levin - posted on 2000-09-25 12:31:16 This problem is not unique to Africa. I believe a strategy of active open and forthright dialogue is important. Education and change management are areas where I have experience although I believe that politics is not the role of ICANN.