Information and Communication Technologies

Prior to the 1960's, according to the International Institute for Communication and Development, a nation's wealth was largely measured by the abundance of its natural resources, its labor force and its capital base. Today however, rapid advances in communication and information technologies have placed increased emphasis on knowledge, in all its various forms, as the "new" wealth of nations. The value of information and accumulated knowledge are important aspects for the future growth potential of developing nations.

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) facilitate the expansion of information and knowledge in both quantity and accessibility. ICTs have enormous potential in furthering development in such vital fields as agriculture, health, and sanitation, education, human resources, and environmental management. They offer the potential to economically store, process, and disseminate vast quantities of information locally or globally. ICTs open enormous opportunities to network, interact, and communicate across borders and without constraint.

The collection, processing, and dissemination of information continue to present a challenge for the sustainable development of the Mediterranean region. Outdated hardware and software, under-developed telecommunications infrastructures, insufficient human capacity in ICTs, a shortage of materials in regionally appropriate languages, and the lack of national information strategies and policy frameworks, inhibit the decision making capabilities of government officials throughout the region.

MCSDP assists public and private sector clients and statekholders to identify their needs for appropriate information and communication technologies, in relation to their institutional goals and objectives, and in a cost-effective manner.

Areas of Intervention

  • Environmental Information Strategies
  • Environmental Information Systems
  • Information Technology and Software Development
  • Knowledge Networking and Communication Infrastructure
  • Social Capability and Informatization
  • Ecosystems Observatories
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Geographic Positioning Systems (GPS)