The Skolelinux-project calls for change of the OASIS patent policy
The Skolelinux[1] effort is about bridging the gaps between the pupils
that have, and don't have access to computers as a part of their
education. In order to close the digital divide each generation must
possess the right to form, change and adapt the technology to improve
their life. In this way we hope to improve the competence of digital
skills in schools and to ensure universal access to technology for
youth and adults.
[1] http://www.skolelinux.org
In our view pure software patents are used to widen the digital divide,
and hinder innovation in small and medium businesses. It's unfortunate
that OASIS don't have taken the signals from the politicians in many
European countries. The German Bundestag is one example. They have
unanimously voted[2] for a restart of the patent directive process in
Europe. They are referring to the jurisdictional practice of the
Federal Supreme Court [of Germany] which has developed a practical
definition:
[2] http://www.nosoftwarepatents.com/docs/(EN)1504403.pdf
"Technical" is a teaching for an action according to plan by using
controllable forces of nature for the achievement of a causally
surveyable result, which result is, without intermediary activity by
the human mind, the direct outcome of the use of controllable forces of
nature. With such a definition, the individual elements of the
technical contribution would be easier to understand. At the same time,
this would make an important contribution to ensuring the continued
interoperability of different computer systems. All in all, the
proposal by the [European Union] Council does not meet those
requirements.
The Skolelinux-project also have facilitated the translation of
OpenOffice.org to the two official written languages in Norway. We are
working together with half of the Norwegian county councils helping
them adapting free software in schools. We are afraid that the
software patents support from OASIS could slow down our effort to close
the digital devide by unnecessary bureaucracy and high legal cost
concerning excessive patent claims or trivial patents. This is why we
supports the letter "A Call to Action in OASIS"[3].
[3] http://www.groklaw.net/article.php?story=20050222131432302
By Knut Yrvin - February 23th, 2005
Project leader of Skolelinux[1] Norway
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