Open Source and the U.N.

I was talking with a friend last week about Linux in Europe. We were discussing the recent news stories about European governments and their interest in Open Source software and operating systems. He reminded me that Microsoft does not enjoy the dominance in the marketplace there that it does in the U.S. This makes it easier for alternatives to be considered.

Now the BBC reports that “the United Nations is holding events across Asia to encourage the region to adopt free and open source software. The UN’s International Open Source Network (IOSN) is organising the first annual Software Freedom Day on 28 August, giving out CDs and booklets about the technology. Events are taking place in countries like India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Open source is free and can offer big opportunities for developing countries. The initiative is part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
In December last year, the UN held a major conference to find ways of bridging the digital divide - the difference in access to computer technologies in developed and developing nations. In many developing countries, widespread access is difficult due to the high costs involved in setting up computer systems, buying licences and software support. IOSN tries to encourage countries to adopt affordable software so that the digital divide can be overcome.”