Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is changing the way governments, businesses and educational institutions provide services. It has revolutionized networks across borders and cultures, promoting new opportunities for economic and social development. Its benefits lie in creating powerful economic networks by dramatically improving communication and the exchange of information across borders. However, there are barriers to entry for new users as access to ICT is severely limited in developing countries due to high costs, language/cultural barriers and legal restrictions.

Free/Open Source Software (FOSS) presents itself as an ICT access and capacity building solution for developing countries. It is an opportunity for these countries to adopt cheaper software and solutions toward bridging the digital divide. It represents an alternative to importing expensive software and applications from foreign corporations. It encourages the development of a local software industry and the dissemination of ICT concepts in the educational sector.

Globally, there is a growing interest in Free/Open Source Software. Countries around the world such as Brazil, China, South Africa, Thailand, South Korea and Germany have adopted sweeping pro-FOSS policies. Others have launched more cautious steps. However, there are still many in the developing world where FOSS is not well accepted due to the lack of knowledge, expertise and resources. Resources on benefits arising from the use of free/open source software, the different kinds of licensing arrangements, new developments, their use in government, use in education, localization issues and information about how it differs from proprietary software are themes that can benefit from more openness and discussions.

The Free and Open Source Software Asia-Pacific (FOSSAP) Consultation is an event which seeks to bring together policy-makers throughout the Asia-Pacific to share their experiences, raise their awareness of specific FOSS-related issues and to discuss developments in the region.