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