Free Software hits German election campaigns

= Free Software hits German election campaigns =

[Permanent URL: http://www.fsfe.org/news/2009/news-20090921-01.de.html]

21 September 2009, 11:00 am, Berlin

The issue of Free Software has hit the run-up to the German elections.
During a campaign launched by Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE)
politicians from many parties have recognised the potential of Free
Software and Open Standards for Germany. In response to questions from
supporters of FSFE, they explain that Free Software equals more
competition, promotes innovation and provides cost savings. 

Free Software - such as the GNU/Linux operating system or the web
browser Mozilla Firefox - can be used without restrictions, studied by
anyone, be modified and passed on. "Free Software brings significant
benefits for the economy" says Karsten Gerloff, president of FSFE. "On
that basis Germany's small and medium enterprises are able to offer high
quality services and create lasting value for our country. We are
delighted that candidates are aware of this opportunity." 

Free Software is also an important prerequisite for equal opportunities
in education. "Software is the cultural technique of the 21st century,
"says Matthias Kirschner, Germany Coordinator of FSFE.  "Everyone should
have the opportunity to gain a basic understanding of this. It's good to
see that FSFE's persistent work on this issue is paying off." 

Nevertheless, the parties lack a comprehensive approach for making the
best of Free Software for Germany's economy and society. FSFE provides
an analysis [http://wiki.fsfe.org/Bundestagswahl2009] of the parties'
programmes, along with the questions answered by the candidates. FSFE
will continue to serve as a competent partner of politicians and
everybody interested in the potential of Free Software.


== About the Free Software Foundation Europe ==


    The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) is a non-profit
    non-governmental organisation active in many European countries and
    involved in many global activities. Access to software determines
    participation in a digital society. To secure equal participation in
    the information age, as well as freedom of competition, the Free
    Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) pursues and is dedicated to the
    furthering of Free Software, defined by the freedoms to use, study,
    modify and copy.  Founded in 2001, creating awareness for these
    issues, securing Free Software politically and legally, and giving
    people Freedom by supporting development of Free Software are
    central issues of the FSFE.

    http://fsfe.org/

== Contact ==

    Matthias Kirschner
    German country coordinator
    Free Software Foundation Europe
    e-mail: press@germany.fsfeurope.org
    mobile: +49-1577-1780003 

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