The GBDe embodies the spirit and dynamic features of the digital age. Today, it is increasingly recognised as one of the world's leading private sector voices on e-commerce policy.

Established in January 1999, the GBDe has - within an extremely short period of time - created a process which is truly global in scope.

Working Groups - The GBDe has developed a framework through which consensus continues to be achieved between companies of different countries, cultures and sectors, many of which are fiercely competitive. This unprecedented creative effort is driven by the GBDe members themselves, using the tools of the digital medium with minimal bureaucroacy.

The GBDe policy development program represents a major step forward in establishing a foundation for an international approach to crucial electronic commerce issues. Ongoing efforts in 2002 are focused on eight key areas:

*Consumer Confidence
*Convergence
*Cyber Security
*Digital Bridges
*E-Government
*Intellectual Property Rights
*Taxation Trade

Knowledge Network
The Knowledge Network is a powerful, searchable database of member company global digital divide projects, with the ability to search by Country, Category, Name and/or Country. Search results provide a brief description of the program as well as contact points to go to for further information. The web site also contains a Directory of projects and a Links section for other digital divide information.

E-Government Database
The E-Government database contains information, classified by region/country, on e-government projects from around the world.

http://www.gbde.org/