Because the new information technologies are in excellent means of disseminating its values, the Council of Europe considers it its duty to encourage and support activities aimed at providing the easiest and broadest possible access to these tools. However, to ensure that the positive values conveyed by the new information technologies do not prompt fear or suspicion, or give rise to discrimination, it is essential to establish certain political principles concerning their proper use.
The guidelines for a European cultural policy presented in this booklet aim to provide a framework for the implementation of policies guaranteeing freedom of expression as well as access to information held by cultural institutions.