Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP CEPIS Position Statement On Electronic Commerce Alex Verrijn-Stuart University of Leiden, NL
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP Electronic Commerce Why a Statement? n A lot is going on n Nobody knows what is really happening n Politicians ask for advice n CEPIS cannot give simple answers But can point out areas of importance
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP CEPIS Electronic Commerce Recommendations n E-Commerce considered beneficial! n Related regulation to be instituted wisely: – Avoid the strongest parties dictating the rules – Provide quality guarantees for public information – Protect from misleading and unsolicited marketing information – Secure transactions and keep them enforceable – Make all parties (especially non-experts) aware of benefits and risks
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP CEPIS Electronic Commerce Recommendations (cont’d) n Messages to be ensured anonymity n Governments: Suitable legislation to be passed and harmonized n Professional Societies: Good practices to be promoted
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP CEPIS Position Statement n Detail refers to: – Equitable and consistent taxation (VAT, etc.) – Effective international legal enforceability – Institution of international complaints boards (to protect individuals)
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP Link to ISO Standards? n Cross-sectoral concerns n Payment methods, etc. Message: For practical standards to be effective, international harmonization is essential
Alex Verrijn-Stuart, IFIP For Further Information n Alex Verrijn-Stuart University of Leiden, NL