UNCTAD has taken another step towards the 21st century with the launch today of the Least Developed Country (LDC) Internet home page. The LDCs site is the first such venture for an UNCTAD programme and it is expected that other divisions will soon follow suit. The site is listed on all major Internet directories and search engines, and can be viewed via the UNCTAD home page.
"The new home page demonstrates our commitment to free and transparent access to information within the international community" said Chandra Kant Patel, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Special Coordinator for Least Developed Countries. "We believe that through this technology, we are taking a real step to bringing our work to a wider audience," he added.
It is hoped that the site will be useful not only to delegates here in Geneva, but to governments, business and academic communities, NGOs and all those concerned with the issues of least developed countries. Worldwide, anyone with Internet access will now be able to view a wide range of information on LDCs.
The site contains statistical and background information for every LDC member country, as well as a freely downloadable executive summary of the most recent Least Developed Country report. There is also a special area detailing the latest developments connected with the new Trust Fund for LDCs, launched earlier this year. Information throughout the site will be updated regularly, providing a valuable window on the activities of the LDC Programme.
"The particular concerns of LDCs are currently prominent on the international political agenda. This Internet presence updates our range of activities and demonstrates that we are taking our ongoing responsibilities to LDCs very seriously," noted Chandra Kant Patel.
The home page has interactive links with contact points in Geneva, New York and UNDP field offices, and comments on the site will be actively sought and acted upon. There are plans to increase the presentation, quantity and scope of information on the site based on feedback received.
