Net localization foretells opportunity, segregation

[icernet-admin at listserv.cddc.vt.edu]

The expansion of the Internet into non-English-speaking nations promises to
diversify the Web and increase international communications. However, the
move also threatens the Internet's existence as a global information source
not controlled by local convention or governments,
according to Paul Twomey, chief executive of the Internet Corporation for
Assigned Names and Numbers. To meet demand in emerging markets like India
and China, the Internet and its programming must be customized to serve
local language needs. However, Twomey said, each region's Web offerings
remain dependent upon one another. The isolation would only get worse if a
proposal currently under consideration by the United Nations' International
Telecommunications Union is approved. Twomey says the policy, which would
entrust individual governments with the regulation of the Web, is a bad
idea. "Governments have an important role in terms of public policy, crime
prevention and content," he said. "But putting the technical elements into
the political arena makes it a bargaining tool."

Source:
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,9071-1034648,00.html