15 November 2006

The secretary-general of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, has claimed that Internet accessibility is vital in society.

Mr Annan states that the Internet and emerging communication technologies have the potential to impact positively on the lives of many individuals - "perhaps none more so than persons with disabilities".

Speaking ahead of the International Day of Disabled Persons, which will be held on December 3rd 2006, the secretary-general has called for an end to "inaccessible formats".

Organisations and government bodies' websites which offer poor standards of accessibility prevent some members of society from participating in the growing information culture, the official claimed.

"Governments and the private sector have been recognising the economic and social benefits of making websites fully accessible and have been putting in place changes involving software and hardware alike," remarked Mr Annan.

This year's International Day of Disabled Persons will focus on e-accessibility, allowing individuals and organisations around the world to take part in the drive to create an inclusive information society.

© Adfero Ltd

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