Sci&Tech History

What is Information and Communication Technology (ICT), really? The Millennium Declaration of the United Nations (UN) sees ICT as a tool having the potential to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by the historic UN 2000 Summit (Zhao, 2008). Further, UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) stated that unlike most other technologies, ICT are general-purpose technologies, bringing improvements in productivity and efficiency throughout the economy. As stated in ‘The Digital Divide Report: ICT Diffusion Index 2005’, “Since its conception, we have hypothesized that, while not a cure-all, the internet could raise the quality of life in the developing world” (UNCTAD, 2006).

Indonesia’s ICT development starts with the same point of view, “to support nation unity, improve people welfare and prosperity fairly and equally; support economic and government field; and improve Indonesia relationship with other countries” (Indonesian Law No. 36/1999). The Law was followed by Presidential Instruction numbered 6/2001 focused on decreasing digital divide between Indonesia and other countries, yet also gap between rural and urban area. The aim of ICT development was made clear, although it relation with people welfare and support economic field was still questioned.

In relation with democracy, it is important to ask how do we want implement ICT for democracy? Through an open database or limited access? I like to analog democracy with rating in television program. For me, restriction is still needed for children so they won’t access adult content. Further, how do we want to translate democracy concept into reality?

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