28/09/2001
www.OpenDemocracy.net

Recent events, not just in America and the Middle East, but in the Congo, in Genoa, in Australia and tiny Nauru, indicate more than ever the need for inclusive, international debate to find sustainable, non-violent solutions to global concerns. The openDemocracy project aims to be a major stepping stone in this direction.

Describing itself as a 'global network for debate and invention', the project invites thinkers, policy makers, creators and questioning individuals from around the world to debate the major issues of our time. Harnessing modern technology and the positive influences of globalisation, the project aims to provide an independent, non-partisan public space where people from across the globe can articulate experiences and share their views. Independent of corporate and political vested interests, the goal is to thereby expand the workings of democracy.

The openDemocracy website contains several themed 'topics' which combine commissioned pieces, interviews and participative debates. Each discussion is led by two or more experts, expressing different standpoints in order to facilitate understanding and open a balanced and informed debate. Although still in pilot form at present, the project aims ultimately to provide a range of debates to encompass the many different aspects of human life. Should market forces, the digital divide or global security not tempt you therefore, debates on issues as diverse as the human quest for learning and the relationship between senses and sensuality will also be available. Those joining the network are encouraged to review these debates, make contributions, or add support or disagreement to others' opinions. Such contributions are monitored by a team of moderators to protect the space from abuse, chat and repetition and to maximise accessibility and participation.

As yet, openDemocracy exists only in pilot form to test the need and the market for such a forum. Recent events indicate that the need for this has never been greater and, as globalisation makes our planet ever-smaller, EuropaWorld is not alone in advocating that any such opportunities for concerned individuals to share understanding be seized. EuropaWorld recommends its readers to check out www.openDemocracy.net today.