Title: The role of information technology and telecommunications in promoting economic development in the European Community

Authors: Roland Huber

Addresses: Information Technology Task Force, European Economic Community, Brussels, Belgium

Abstract: Information and telecommunication technologies (IT&T) are likely to cause structural changes in society. involving the developing countries as well as the industrialized world. The latter, including Europe, should not overestimate the significance or durability of the lead they appear to enjoy. The European Economic Community is the world|s largest trading unit and has the potential, in terms of population and resources – industrial, intellectual and financial organization – to make itself felt as a technological leader. Yet there have been set-backs, particularly in relation to the older industries. IT&T provides an opportunity for Europe to improve its competitive stance, but this can happen only if the collective will and the economic potential can be successfully harnessed. This paper reviews the programmes and actions of the EEC in the field of IT&T.

Keywords: European Economic Community; EEC; information technology; telecommunications; economic development; research and development; R&D; international division of labour.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.1987.026143

International Journal of Technology Management, 1987 Vol.2 No.3/4, pp.501 - 513

Published online: 27 May 2009 *

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