BBC bringing Internet democracy to the UK

Cory Doctorow 8:23 am Tue May 6, 2003

Good piece on a BBC initiative to use the Internet as a tool for direct democracy. The UK seems way ahead of the US on this front, what with FaxYourMP and all. Have you visited the EFF Action Center lately?

The BBC's purpose is twofold. On the one hand, the iCan site will help keep the broadcaster's ear to the ground. By mining the iCan website for leads, the BBC will be better able to respond to issues pertinent to its viewers, or so it hopes.

On the other hand, the effort is intended to counteract what officials at the broadcasting network feel is widespread political apathy in the United Kingdom, marked by low voter turnout at elections and declining audiences for its political programming. As a state-financed institution operating under a royal charter to inform, educate and entertain, the BBC feels it is within its purview to help disenfranchised citizens engage in public life.

Link

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