Foundation for information policy research

The Foundation for Information Policy Research is an independent body that studies the interaction between information technology and society. Its goal is to identify technical developments with significant social impact, commission and undertake research into public policy alternatives, and promote public understanding and dialogue between technologists and policy-makers in the UK and Europe.

During 2002-3, the foundation plans to focus its research, policy development and lobbying in five key areas:

Trust in E-commerce and E-government
Surveillance and security
Intellectual property and the public domain
International law and the Internet
Academic freedom

These are just some of the most pressing public policy issues raised by advances in information technology. The subject matter is legally and technically complex. It affects everyone, and decisions made in the next few years will be irreversible. But Government policy making is not always informed by a full appreciation of the consequences either for business or for the individual consumer and citizen. The foundation aims to raise the quality of public debate while there is still time to do so.