NEWS RELEASE - 19 April 2007

Opening Address by Daewon Choii

As you know, ODR is an important area as it is becoming a priority for governments eager to promote e-commerce and technological development. ODR serves to build trust in online and cross-border commercial activities through the smooth resolution of disputes that could arise from these activities: ODR is reducing the friction cost associated with electronic commerce and encouraging its growth.

ODR can contribute to a more open and non-discriminatory trading system. The key targets of the Millennium Development Goals approved by the United Nations General Assembly.

Yet, beyond providing viable solutions to the outstanding legal issues linked to the increased use of the Internet for business, I envision a novel and deeper role emerging for ODR as an agent of change to stimulate and accelerate structural and judiciary reforms in developing countries.