Civil Society 2.0 in DC

As promised, Department of State is hosting a conference on Civil Society 2.0 in November… see announcement below and save the date!

–an earthquake in Haiti
–African fishermen needing cash for their catch
–disrupted elections in Iran
–overseas families in need of support

In all these difficult circumstances, technology has made a dramatic difference in the lives of people. Earthquake rescue, relief and fundraising were all supercharged to Haiti’s benefit; mobile phones help fishermen find the best prices and make more money; an online video drew attention to an Iranian crackdown; and millions are able to aid relatives by sending remittances quickly back home. Along with health, environmental, educational and other applications, technology is having a significant impact on international development and diplomacy. But how to scale that for greatest effect?

Join a select panel of experts Nov. 4-5 to discuss how we can use technology to create Civil Society 2.0, the Department of State’s effort to focus technological applications for social good. The two-day event will feature elite speakers as well as the opportunity to create your own new conversations on this intriguing and important topic.

Presenters will include:

Gail J. McGovern, President and CEO of the American Red Cross
Beth Kanter, author of The Networked Nonprofit and CEO of Zoetica
Tim O’Reilly, founder of O’Reilly Media and advocate for free-software and open-source movements
and
Alec Ross, senior adviser for innovation to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

This occasion is perfect for those supporting civil society, for those working on the ground in development and diplomacy, and for the technology community looking for an opportunity to join the effort. Event details will be coming soon, but save the dates now for this event at the State Department headquarters and the World Bank in Washington, D.C.

More info at tech.state.gov.