[Cl7] Because the private sector is a critical partner m constructing the GII/GIS. most experts agree that industry should develop products and determine standards based upon market needs. In support of this approach. any national and international guidelines and policies adopted by governments should be technology-neutral in terms of design and development. Furthermore, although it is recognised that governments may influence product development by expressing? like any user, the need for a certain type of product, some believe governments must be careful not to drive the entire market in a par1icular direction.

[C 18] But market forces may not necessarily result in the proliferation of products that support the needs of all interested parties, including the needs of law enforcement and national security It is unacceptable for governments to abdicate responsibility for protecting public safety and privacy simply because of the difficulties inherent in promoting strong and safe cryptography. However, in addressing the foregoing cryptography policy issues, Member countries are also aware that if the requirements they impose on the use of cryptography are too burdensome, then users of the GII/GIS will not use cryptography and industry will not develop products that incorporate cryptographic techniques, all to the detriment of the GII/GIS.

[C19] The following OECD Guidelines for Cryptography Policy incorporate the thoughts of the Member countries regarding these critical issues.