Protecting the global information commons

The rapid expansion of the Internet world-wide, especially as the World Wide Web has simplified access to its information resources and enabled e-commerce, but has also spawned an increasing number of abuses. If Internet-based information infrastructures are to continue to provide important services, and if they are not to be limited by their misuse, the protection of the information commons must become a central issue for its users. This paper discusses how that protection might be effected as the current infrastructure evolves. Approaches will involve both individual and collective action, and both private and public funding. The increasing role of sovereign states, the development of international law, and the necessity of nations addressing their cyber goals in ways that allow for compatible policies are discussed. Policy models useful for addressing these issues are reviewed and some specific proposals are made.