Page 215 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

Bringing the Concept to Life

and by its accelerated pace. It is change that is not only characterized by the
end of the Cold War, but also by alterations in every aspect of our daily lives, by
realignments to the very fabric of our societies. Old models - not only in
politics, in economics, and in technology, but also in human relations - are
being questioned, new theories and methods are being developed and tested. It
is really a civilizational change which is under way.

The United Nations system cannot remain outside this current of change.
We have embarked on a process that is intended both to accommodate the
demands for administrative reform and to continue to meet the needs of our
Member States in a focused and cost-effective manner.

TELECOM 95 is a microcosm illustrating the role of technology as a
major generator and catalyst of changes and showing the very consequences of
these changes. TELECOM is a timely and telling example of how, through
ingenuity and international cooperation, concrete and constructive solutions
can be offered to face the new challenges.

In contrast to previous TELECOMs, this event covers a wide range of sub-
jects, including the creation of a Global Information Society and such issues as
the future role that the Internet will play in business and trade. TELECOM 95
demonstrates the determinations with which the International Telecommuni-
cation Union - the oldest intergovernmental organizations in the United
Nations system - addresses these new challenges. Technological advances, ac-
centuated by the convergence of telecommunications, computer, broadcasting
and information technologies, have created a strong impetus at the interna-
tional level for a more comprehensive approach to the broader issues of the
global information economy and society. The effort to build the Global Infor-
mation Society will result in the promotion of an infrastructure that will benefit
all the world's people.

Technology is a driving force in development efforts. Telecommunications
are a critical part of that force. But let us not forget that technology has its
limitations. Without human experience, imagination and aspirations, technology
remains a rudderless instrument. The extraordinary interest shown across the
globe for this event and the impressive attendance clearly attests to a universal
understanding of this fact.

I wish to pay a special tribute to the ITU and its outstanding Secretary-
General, Dr. Pekka Tarjanne, for the efforts to help shape a future global

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