The WSIS Welcomes Civil Society to the Governance Table

Marc Raboy's article regarding the WSIS and its role in the progression of a global communication structure gives an informed perspective on the development of international communication from NWICO until present day.  His approach to the WSIS is intriguing in that he begins with the shortcomings of its first summit, notably the lack of voice given civil society, but turns around and goes on to put things in perspective which shines a more positive light on the achievements of the WSIS.  

I think that Raboy is attempting to highlight some of the progress made within international communication and its newfound focus on the inclusion of civil society as an entity of governance.  The WSIS fell short in some areas but proves to be useful in creating a transitional model that takes the global communication rubric from a mode of intergovernmental oversight to a more collaborative inclusion-based model.  I feel that this is critical based on the shortcomings of the recent history of global media flow and its lack of respect for all actors in the international governance framework.

The WSIS sets up a new infrastructure of assessment within the international communication community and takes us from the failures of NWICO to a more open and engaging dialogue.  The community can now deal with information more accurately and openly as the global issues of information systems and communication develop.  Civil society's inclusion is imperative to give credence to any international organization and the WSIS has set an important precedent for the progress of international communication in the 21st century.