EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - Internet Town

Internet Town - Le Havre , France

Introduction

Local politicians and civil servants in the City of Le Havre are rewarded for their commitment to "truly democratic access" to the internet.

Problem

How do you encourage local internet citizenship?

Description

Le Havre is one of the three towns in France to be awarded 5 At-signs (@) by the "Villes-Internet" jury. Villes-Internet was founded in 1998. The organization developed out of a network of local politicians, civil servants and organizations with the objective of stimulating internet access for inhabitants in general, encouraging digital local democracy and preventing a digital gap.

Approach

The "Villes-Internet" website is a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience. Its most striking feature is a quality label ranging from 1 to 5 At-signs for the internet sites of various towns. 391 towns in France have received labels, but only three towns have websites worthy of 5 At-signs. The French ministry for urban renewal (DIV) is one of the members of the jury.

Results

Le Havre received 5 At-signs because it meets the following criteria:

Wide access to internet in libraries, schools and multimedia centres.
Option of digital access for citizens to public amenities. A local agenda, minutes of council meetings, discussion forums with local politicians.
Cooperation between the authorities and local amenities like schools, sports clubs and businesses.
Effective monitoring and evaluation of policy.
Support for local initiatives (by citizens).

Le Havre has a site in 4 languages (French, English, German and Spanish). There is extensive information for tourists about the city and activities. Inhabitants receive information about their district and the decisions of the municipal council. In addition, they can use a virtual help desk. This desk provides information on administrative procedures and laws, making it easier to obtain permits. It is also possible to ask questions.

Contact info

City of Le Havre
mairie@ville-lehavre.fr
Daniel Devoine (Webmanager Le Havre), tel. +33 235194622

Project start date

11/02/2004

Links

City of Le Havre Villes Internet

Document type

case

Themes

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Keywords

Community websites