Digital technology and networks open incredible opportunities for the exchange of information, but also present unique challenges in terms of how creators of that information are protected. The growth of Global Electronic Commerce requires development of a globally accepted, effective copyright regime that strikes the proper balance between strong protection for creative works on the one hand, and the preservation of access to information on the other. Recent international agreements, such as the Protocol to the Berne Convention in Geneva (12/96), confirm the need to advance both the rights and exceptions under copyright law into the digital age. Issues such as the scope of copyright, the proper treatment of copies automatically created through digital exchange, the principle of fair use in the digital environment and the appropriate level of protection for databases must be addressed by individual nations and by the global community.

Electronic Commerce represents the single biggest change in our lifetime in how we communicate and do business with our suppliers, our partners and our customers.
Bruce I. Sachs, Stratus Computer

"The development of the Internet and private data networks has allowed companies to bring greater efficiencies and conveniences to our customers and suppliers through real-time electronic purchasing and sales using electronic data interchange technologies and on-line shopping. This ability to do business without regard to geographical location is the direct result of the development of the Internet infrastructure and technologies."
Ronald Skates, Data General Corporation