Statistical data and indicators regarding the use and impact of ICT help policymakers to formulate strategies related to ICT-driven economic growth and social development. In recognition of the need for improvement of data and indicators, and to close the data gap at the international level, the global Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development was launched in 2004. ESCWA and other United Nations regional commissions have undertaken several steps to fulfil the objectives of the Partnership.

This issue considers a number of global developments related to information and communications technology (ICT) and discusses certain fundamental issues that affect the efforts of the Western Asian region to develop the information society, and the role which ESCWA plays in that domain. The central subject of the issue is e-government. In addition, there are several regular chapters on such topics of interest to the expert and layman alike as ICT policies, the activities of the ESCWA ICT Division, ICT book and website reviews as well as issues related to everyday life.

This paper attempts to assess the level of social justice in the Arab region, and suggests a set of actions to advance its realization.

There is significant variation in the legal frameworks for the regulation of cyber issues between ESCWA member countries. This study addresses the current state of cyber legislation in the region and makes a comparative analysis with diverse regional groups, including the European Union, enabling interested parties to evaluate levels of statutory coverage both regionally and nationally. On a practical level, it provides an implementation plan which encourages member countries to utilize their existing strengths while addressing areas of potential improvement.