CDT.org - Forum For Internet Policy Discussion

The internet contains a wealth of information most of which is still uncharted. Mostly we take for granted the ease and facility by which we can catch up with our friends or read alternative news. The CDT, or Center for Democracy and Technology, however, takes the matter very seriously. They work to make the internet a democratic arena and to promote freedom of communication. Still you may be wondering who they are exactly. The answer: the CDT is a non-profit organization dedicated to ‘promoting the democratic potential of today’s open, decentralized global internet’; they perform research and develop public policy in consensus with commercial reps and the public interest. They’re funding by a range of international institutions, corporations and trade associations. Essentially, they worry about privacy issues, social implications, freedom, etc, so that you don’t have to. They have your rights in mind. Their site contains papers and studies about diverse issues such as anti-spyware and intellectual property. You can read up on policy development and see what’s going on behind the scenes. Join the discussion.

“The Center for Democracy and Technology works to promote democratic values and constitutional liberties in the digital age. With expertise in law, technology, and policy, CDT seeks practical solutions to enhance free expression and privacy in global communications technologies. CDT is dedicated to building consensus among all parties interested in the future of the Internet and other new communications media.”

The CDT is an organization that we wouldn’t want to live without. Despite the public’s often carefree, lackadaisical attitude about internet use, there are many factors that contribute to how we are able to communicate and actually use the internet. These factors may seem rarified and political but they are important. The CDT insures that the internet is open and democratic, and that is a good thing for everyone.

Organizations like these, although non-profit, may not always have the public interest in mind; it’s easy to be swayed by commercial prospects and financial incentives.