World information flows and the impact of new technology. Is there a need for international communication policy and regulation?

Communication is the fastest growing industry in the world due to a transformation of world information flows caused by the convergence of telecommunication, information technology and mass media institutions. The emerging conglomerates are leading the world towards the information age. The new technology at their disposal is creating ever increasing world information flows which are changing political, economic and cultural landscapes, and redefining work, education and development. The speed and uptake of new technology could not have been predicted and its far reaching political, economic and social implications have only recently begun to emerge. The paper argues that an international communication policy is necessary to ensure the world does not divide into the information rich and the information poor.