WORLD STANDARDS DAY 2003

Global Standards for the Global Information Society

Like every year on October 14, World Standards Day brings together the European Standards Organizations, CENELEC, CEN & ETSI in the commemoration of this very special date.

Under the heading “Global Standards for the Global Information Society”, Standards organizations around the world, and CENELEC in particular, are highlighting the ever more importance of ICT in our daily lives. It is not only about technology or computers: the Information Society is here to stay and promises some fundamental changes in the way we interact with the others.

CENELEC has also recognized this challenge and has set up in 2003 a new ICT Standardization division as a strategic action in order to closely deal with ICT matters. In this sense, substantial efforts have been made in areas like Digital Television, where positive results are rapidly being attained. Further developments will cover inclusive & design for all characteristics so that the new Digital TV does not become a barrier for the disabled or people with special needs.

CENELEC is firmly convinced that adequate standardization in emerging domains can foster the development of the European Industry and reinforce the role of the European market as an essential driver in the worldwide economy. In this sense, CENELEC is placing itself in a privileged position to face the development of Smart Houses in the near future. The concept of “Home Networks”, centralization of tasks and remote control of devices are already becoming familiar.

Consensus is the main driver of our organizations. This is the reason why it is key to participate where the decisions are taken. The European Standards Organizations provide the means for stakeholders to participate in standardization offering them the possibility to shape and let their voices be heard in future standards according to their specific inputs, requirements and needs.

The European Standards Organizations, CEN, CENELEC & ETSI, and their counterparts worldwide, ISO, IEC & ITU encourage all standards users to contribute and participate in the development process of standards. The future of the Information Society and the improvement of our lives greatly depend on future standards chosen.

About CENELEC

Based in Brussels, the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC) is officially responsible for standardization in the electrotechnical field. Its members have been working together in the interests of European harmonization since the 1950s, creating both voluntary and harmonized Standards which have helped to develop a European Market without barriers to trade. CENELEC works with 35,000 technical experts from 23 European countries. Its work increases market potential, encourages technological development and improves living  & working conditions.

For further information about this news release, please contact:

Paco Cabeza-Lopez
CENELEC Communications Officer
Tel: +32 (0)2 519 6867
E-mail: info@cenelec.org