New knowledge, new jobs, new problems?
The social impacts of the information society were the subject of discussion at a European Economic and Social Committee (ESC) and French ESC conference, 'New knowledge, new jobs' in Paris on 8 November. Delegates from national economic and social councils as well as representatives from Europe's civil society organisations emphasised the social divisions that new technology threatens to create, urged politicians to take account of rapid changes in society, and to tackle the worries and challenges posed by new technologies. Calls for improved education and financial made by several participants. 'Opportunities for innovation in industry and society will only be exploited in an effective and socially responsible manner if joint efforts are made by all players to improve and broaden the level of knowledge and the basic skills of all. The knowledge society offers new opportunities for growth and employment. At the same time, new social risks and a greater need for solidarity, particularly towards the most vulnerable, may arise' states a conference declaration, which was presented to Pierre Moscovici, French minister for European Affairs, who was attending the event on behalf of the French presidency of the European Union. Former Commissioner and current member of the UK's House of Lords, Lord Ralf Dahrendorf declared that education would not resolve the so-called digital divide. Well-educated knowledge society workers would encourage their children to obtain useful qualifications, but the rest, an equal number, are likely to be left behind, said Lord Dahrendorf. Problems for the agricultural sector and older industries were noted by Jacques Delors, former president of the European Commission. Older workers find new technologies difficult to understand, and the European social model, is, to an extent, threatened by their advance, said Mr Delors. The difficulties encountered by those wishing to start up new technology businesses were outlined by Claude Allegre, director of the Institute of Global Physics. He highlighted the slow speed at which new technology businesses are financed, and urged the Union to improve coordination of research programmes, so that programme leaders can meet and compare notes.