Structural funds' key role in creating the information society
Structural funds will play a key role in creating the planned 'information society' in Europe over the period 2000-2006, the desired result of the European Commission's eEurope programme, according to the Commission. Structural funds' stated role is already to reduce the differences between different European regions and also secure their competitiveness, and fits well with the goals of the information society, which also aims to reduce social exclusion as well as bringing the regions of Europe closer together. From 2000-2006, structural funds investments will essentially require development of the demand of new technologies. The Commission sees the need for more integration of the population into the new digital culture as a key element of creating the digital society, and the present absence of this as a major obstacle. Ignorance of new technologies and resistance to new technologies can be a major drawback in this area. The information society element will also become a key element of the regional development programmes, for objective one, two and three. Finally innovative actions during the 2000-2006 period will also require an emphasis on one of the three following areas - making regional players aware of new technologies applied to regional development - evaluation of each region's specific 'poles of competence' - transfer of technologies, experiences and good practices in this area These priorities will help create a 'risk area' for the regional players, helping them respond to the demands of the new economy. The European Commission organised a conference in Lyon on 18 and 19 December to bring together the players concerned to discuss the issues this raises.