STOCKHOLM -- The Global IP Alliance ("Alliance") today released its initial report on the state of global IP-based communications policy and regulation. The report is the first in a series of evolving, updateable resources that will establish the Alliance as the "go-to" resource for IP-based communications-related information around the world. By supplying information and support regarding regulatory activities, the Alliance will also serve to demonstrate that the emerging IP-based communications industry is capable of self-governance without the need for stringent regulatory interference or prescriptive oversight.

"The Global IP Alliance believes that the future must be innovation and technology driven," noted Marilyn Cade, Strategy Consultant to the Alliance. "Rules are being set right now that affect IP Enabled Services, especially VoIP. Lawmakers and regulators have both questions and concerns that need to be addressed if we are to avoid typical telecom regime, or international treaty approaches that can only stifle innovation and adoption by users around the world -- whether businesses or consumers. The Global IP Alliance is bringing industry and users together to address these issues and others, affecting the bright future of IP enabled communications."

"Regulations can speed access to technology, or impede it," said Julie Hedlund, Strategy Advisor to the Alliance. "During the time that we've been developing this Report, the level of interest, and the number of policy activities in VoIP regulations and in policy initiatives has grown exponentially. Countries that once banned VoIP for all purposes are beginning to understand its value to their citizens. It is our hope that the Report will also serve as a resource to countries looking for 'lessons learned' to help them develop the best policies to support the adoption of IP enabled services."

The Alliance will develop liaison activities for the disparate entities world-wide concerned with issues related to achieving widespread success of IP communications in a global environment," noted Jonathan Askin, the Acting Executive Director of the Global IP Alliance and the General Counsel to pulver.com. "We understand that there are many entities throughout the world attempting to address the social issues and other challenges confronting the IP-based community. Through joining with other members of the Global IP Alliance, companies and organizations will help to speed the development of awareness, resources, and approaches to foster the rapid deployment and ubiquity of IP communications."

"We acknowledge that technology can solve many problems, when policy doesn't unnecessarily get in the way," said Jeff Pulver, Acting Chairman of the Alliance. "The Global IP Alliance will help to create a world where technology can truly support the individual's communications needs. Imagine a world in which a person using an IP-enabled communications device simply presses a button and coordinated emergency response teams and other entities obtain immediate access to the person's location, medical history and other relevant data that might require particularized treatment. That is the world that we hope to contribute to over the next few years. That is the type of future we hope that the Global IP Alliance will motivate and propel."

Global IP Alliance