and come up with numerous innovations that have enriched Cyberspace18. Through education and guidance on the safe and effective use of Cyberspace, young people will channel this dynamism and creativity into higher purposes, fostering wider social understanding and triggering valuable innovation. m. Recognition of the Needs of Small States Our Charter says, “We are committed to assisting small and developing states in the Commonwealth, including the particular needs of small island developing states...” Cyberspace could help small island states surmount numerous challenges including paucity of expertise, geographic isolation and economies of scale19. Cyberspace offers a gateway to global markets for small scale producers as much as for large scale producers, breaking down one of the key barriers to market entry faced by small island states. n. Recognition of the Needs of Vulnerable States Our Charter says, “We are committed to collaborating to find ways to provide immediate help to the poorest and most vulnerable including least developed countries, and to develop responses to protect the people most at risk.” Cyberspace could help poorest, most marginalised and vulnerable by providing access to information and to markets for economic development. o. The Role of Civil Society Our Charter says, “We recognise the important role that civil society plays in our communities and countries as partners in promoting and supporting Commonwealth values and principles...” Cyberspace offers the means for easier and more effective engagement by individuals in society, particularly the rural, the vulnerable and marginalised. A more active civil society can help promote our values and principles in today’s Cyberspace. A more active civil society can also stimulate further progress in support of our values and principles by engaging directly in the development and operation of tomorrow’s Cyberspace. p. Cyberspace itself Our Charter recognises the transformational role of Information and Communication Technology, which underpins Cyberspace, and the need to harness its power in a positive way: “We also recognise the importance of information and communication technologies as powerful instruments of development; delivering savings, efficiencies and growth in our economies, as well as promoting education, learning and the sharing of culture. We are committed to strengthening its use while enhancing its security, for the purpose of advancing our societies.” 18 Facebook was launched by a 20 year old student UNESCO-supported “Small Islands Voice” initiative and its Global Internet Forum and Internet based Youth Forum. See also the reports of the “Small Islands Voice” meetings in Mauritius 2005 19