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Conroy to help shape global Internet at UN body

Global Broadband Commission for Digital Development to steer the world’s high-speed Internet

Communications Minister, Senator Stephen Conroy, has been appointed by the United Nations (UN) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as a founding member of the Broadband Commission for Digital Development.

The group will have about 30 members from around the world. Its goal? To rollout broadband Internet to more people.

The Commission will be co-chaired by the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, and Mexican business magnate and philanthropist, Carlos Slim Helu.

“The digital economy presents social and economic opportunities that have never before been possible and making the most of these opportunities will be crucial for nations around the world,” Senator Conroy said in a statement. “"The NBN will lift Australia to the top of world-rankings when it comes to broadband access and I’m pleased to see the ITU has recognised our important work.”

Minister Conroy isn’t the only politician to take on a role at the commission. Apart from the Rwandan President, politicians and Government officials from Samoa, Uruguay, Singapore, Finland and America have been confirmed as commissioners.

The commission has until September to create a set of strategies aimed at accelerating broadband rollout globally.

The first of two reports will be created with input from the commissioner. The second will be an in-depth research paper that examines the social and economic benefits of broadband rollout.

Nominations for the 2012 ARN IT Industry Awards open on Tuesday, June 12.

More about: International Telecommunication Union, ITU, United Nations
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Tags: Broadband Commission for Digital Development, Communications Minister, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), National Broadband Network (NBN), Senator Stephen Conroy, United Nations (UN)
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