The objectives of the regional consultation are to provide guidance on policy formulations related to FOSS, identify ways to build the necessary FOSS capacities to ensure successful implementation of FOSS policies, and at the same time raise the awareness of policy-makers on various FOSS-related issues. Specifically, the consultation will:

• Provide an overview of the policies which have been adopted or proposed in various countries
• Raise awareness on issues related to FOSS in localization, licensing, network infrastructure, government, education, and the related policy issues
• Identify the needs and priorities in the region for the adoption of FOSS
• Identify the immediate measures to build capacity for the adoption of FOSS in government, for network infrastructure and security, and for the localization of FOSS
• Develop recommendations for specific policies on FOSS
• Provide an opportunity for policy-makers, FOSS experts and others to network