Options for and effectiveness of self-regulation in the information society. European Commission DG information society and media

This report consists of six chapters. Chapter 1 explains the choice of specific SROs for the Phase 2 focussed evaluations, and the methodology we adopt (as in the Inception Report). We set the examples against a common set of criteria, and selected and tabulated against these criteria. The substantive Chapters 2-5 contain case studies arranged by four categories: infrastructure and critical resources (Chapter 2); issues affecting content rating (Chapter 3), Internet filtering and reporting of illegal content (Chapter 4); issues that are emerging (Chapter 5). This provides the basis for examination of standards, infrastructure, ISP self-regulation, mass media content, and user-derived content. It also provides the framework to examine personal Internet security, DRM and e-commerce standards. Finally, Chapter 6 details the comparative analysis across case studies, in order to develop patterns, especially with regard to the dynamic evolution of case studies identified in the study period June-September 2007. Further gap analysis bridges the Phase 1 mapping exercise, and Phase 2 detailed examination of a representative and strategically chosen universe of case studies, is to identify the continually emerging environment for new topics and/or sectoral areas of regulatory and/or legislative interest. This concise gap analysis provides the background for the final report explanation of potential areas for further research. In the final section, we detail the work to be undertaken subsequently to complete the study. Appendix 1 details the schedule of interviews and other discussions conducted with stakeholders and experts. Appendix 2 details web survey responses