Obama’s Internet Initiative & Social Reform in the U.S. & Japan

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can improve productivity, help create internationally competitive businesses and represent a key to social and organizational reforms. President Obama used ICTs effectively during his presidential campaign. Now in power, his administration makes aggressive use of the social networking tools (blogs, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter etc.) to develop stimulus policies and other governmental operations. Here, ICTs are not just tools for election campaigns, but for realizing civic participation and transparent policy-making. Also important is the vibrant blogosphere where discussions about the future of media industries and Internet firm business models are influencing corporate strategies. A pattern is emerging where corporate and policy decision-making is shaped by open Internet-based discussions. Japan has advanced broadband infrastructure and excellent entertainment services. However, comparable progress in reforming business and society is lacking, a problem the Democratic Party of Japan seems keen to address. Our experts explore the evolving role of ICTs in reforming politics, business and society in U.S. and Japan.

Panelists:
Joshua Fouts, Chief Global Strategist, Dancing Ink Productions

Kazuya Okada, NTT Data Agilenet
Kevin Werbach, Assistant Professor of Legal Studies and Business Ethics, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
Toshihiro Yoshihara, Visiting Fellow, Center for Strategic and International Studies

Moderator:
Devin Stewart, Director, Global Policy Innovations, Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs

Agenda:
12-12:30 pm Registration & reception
12:30-1 Luncheon
1-2:30 Panel discussion and Q&A

Admission: This is a free event open to the public, but you must pre-register for the program. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

Register online or send email to [email protected].

For information only, please contact the Corporate Program at 212-715-1208.