Information technology is reorganizing international politics, giving power and influence to the disenfranchised, empowering new groups and reshaping the constellation of international players. I have seen first-hand the power of the new communications in the landmines campaign, where the Internet gave international civil society a new say in pushing forward shared objectives. Clearly, the new information and communications technologies are instruments for change. Our concern here is how to use them to achieve our goals of more democratic societies and better governance, with respect for the rule of human rights law. Democratization does not happen simply by holding elections.
Democratization requires an active, effective civil society.
It requires citizens who are ready, willing and able to participate in the political life of their country, and who are not only permitted but encouraged to do so. The Internet has the potential to shelter and nourish opposition groups who are seeking democratic change under repressive regimes. It can help overcome the monopolies of state-controlled media. Governments are still coming to grips with this new phenomenon. Some have not fully comprehended it.