capacity building and practical cooperation in promoting development. We are committed to an effective, equitable, rules-based multilateral trading system, the freest possible flow of multilateral trade on terms fair and equitable to all, while taking into account the special requirements of small states and developing countries.” Cyberspace can help find synergies with other development work and thereby bring greater coherence to development initiatives. Through more universal access to information and to markets, Cyberspace can help remove disparities of opportunity and the means to bring these aspirations to fruition. i. Protecting the Environment Our Charter says, “We recognise the importance of the protection and conservation of our natural ecosystems and affirm that sustainable management of the natural environment is the key to sustained human development. We recognise the importance of multilateral cooperation, sustained commitment and collective action...” The availability of previously unparalleled amounts of sensory information, through Cyberspace, helps us better manage13 our environment and can reveal to the public eye any emerging damage 14. j. Access to Health, Education, Food and Shelter Our Charter says, “We recognise the necessity of access to affordable health care, education, clean drinking water, sanitation and housing for all citizens and emphasise the importance of promoting health and well-being in combating communicable and noncommunicable diseases.” Access to information15, reliable metrics16 and delivery channels offered by Cyberspace form a key part of delivering these outcomes, particularly for rural communities. k. Gender Equality Our Charter says, “We recognise that gender equality and women’s empowerment are essential components of human development and basic human rights. The advancement of women’s rights and the education of girls are critical preconditions for effective and sustainable development.” Cyberspace can contribute significantly to promoting gender equality and equity, supporting Millennium 2015 Development Goal 3, though this depends upon access to ICT for women and girls, particularly in rural areas17. Its nature as an open source of information and its ability to empower individuals, make Cyberspace a platform to promote gender equality. l. Importance of Young People in the Commonwealth Our Charter says, “We recognise the positive and active role and contributions of young people in promoting development, peace, democracy and in protecting and promoting other Commonwealth values, such as tolerance and understanding, including respect for other cultures...” Young people, being digital natives, have embraced Cyberspace wholeheartedly 13 "Open Data for Africa, an African Development Bank initiative, 2013. " "Use of Big Data from near-real-time photography shows tropical mammals on the decline, 12 December 2013 15 Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN: initiatives to support the delivery of MDG 1 16 UNICEF, “Committing to Child survival: a promise renewed, Progress Report 2013” 17 “ Gender Equality Issues in ICT” – a World Bank project 14