i2010 is the EU policy framework for the information society and media. It promotes the positive contribution that information and communication technologies (ICT) can make to the economy, society and personal quality of life.
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The i2010 strategy has three aims:
- to create a Single European Information Space, which promotes an open and competitive internal market for information society and media services
- to strengthen investment and innovation in ICT research
- to support inclusion, better public services and quality of life through the use of ICT.
To achieve those aims there are various actions such as regulation, funding for research and pilot projects, promotion activities and partnerships with stakeholders.
The strategy and actions, presented in the i2010 Communication of 2005, are reviewed and updated through i2010 Annual Reports. The annual report also analyses developments in the ICT sector and assesses the EU Member States’ progress in implementing their ICT objectives.
Single European Information Space
The first objective of i2010 is to establish a Single European Information Space offering affordable and secure high-bandwidth communications, rich and diverse content and digital services. Action in this area combines regulatory and other instruments at the European Commissions disposal to create a modern, market-oriented regulatory framework for the digital economy.
The creation of the Single European Information Space means addressing the challenges posed by digital convergence. This convergence is to telecommunications what globalisation is to trade – an issue that will affect everything governments do. “The Challenges of Convergence” prepared with the i2010 High Level Group in 2006 set the ground for a discussion on the future policy orientations in this area that was followed up by mid-term review of the i2010 strategy and still continues.
Innovation and Investment in ICT Research
This priority of i2010 focuses on the EUs research and development instruments and sets priorities for cooperation with the private sector to promote innovation and technological leadership. Actions implemented under this priority aim to strengthen European innovation and research in ICT through instruments such as the Seventh Research Framework Programme (FP7), the European Technology Platforms and Joint Technology Initiatives (JTIs). Other actions in this area aim to promote the take up of ICT by EU citizens, businesses and administrations, notably through projects supported by the ICT Policy Support Programme.
Source: European Commission
