International Institute of Communications

MIDDLE EAST TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA FORUM

Qatar

Wednesday 10th February 2010

Kindly hosted by ictQATAR

at the Sharq Village & Spa (Al-Dasha Hall), Ras Abboud Street, Al-Khulaifait, Doha

Boosting Broadband in the Region – What are the Critical Drivers?

In spite of huge strides made in recent years, broadband development in the Middle East lags behind the North America, the Far East and Europe. Yet the region’s youthful demographic structure and local lifestyles would suggest fertile ground for its development and, as elsewhere, governments are acutely aware that they cannot afford to ignore the very significant social, economic, personal and cultural benefits that widespread broadband use could bring.

This one-day IIC Telecommunications and Media Forum will examine the outlook for mass broadband usage in the region in the light of current trends, demographics and lifestyle choices, and the associated commercial opportunities. Drawing on the experience of North America, the Far East and Europe, it will analyse the technology required to extend the reach of broadband to meet future user requirements as well as what is needed to create demand for broadband by way of content, new services and applications.

The IIC’s Telecommunications and Media Forum meets three times a year in different geographical locations including annually in Brussels and in Washington, DC. Its meetings are restricted to members and invited guests. The emphasis is on discussion between participants and free and frank exchanges of views. This means that a considerable amount of time is dedicated to debate, and discussions are confidential.

This one day event is preceded by a Digital Communications Literacy meeting on Tuesday 9th February. Click here for details.

For further information see www.iicom.org or contact j.grimshaw@iicom.org