Commonwealth Island States in the Global Information Society: A Narrow Window of Opportunity

The Commonwealth's small island states have a narrow window of opportunity to improve their cultural, economic and environmental well-being through connection with the global information society (GIS). They will become increasingly disadvantaged relative to the rest of the world if they do not take this opportunity, and international experience suggests that an audit-based, integrated, cross-sectoral strategy leading to an effective partnership between the public and private sectors is the most successful way of achieving their objectives. In addition to local action, the islands should ensure that their interests are represented in the forums which are now shaping the direction and role of the GIS. An awareness-training programme for politicians and other senior figures in the public and private sectors may help strengthen and inform their decision-making and forge sound cross-sectoral links.