DVC PROGRAM ON "THE NEGATIVE EFFECT OF PIRACY ON COMPUTER SOFTWARE, AUDIO CASSETTES AND VIDEO CASSETTES.": PROGRAM EVALUATION

UNCLAS AMMAN 006205 SIPDIS IIP/G/NEA (BDURANT); NEA/PPD (DMACINNES, CBOURGEOIS, JGAFFNEY); NEA/ARN (SZIADEH) E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OIIP OEXC SCUL JO SUBJECT: DVC Program on "The Negative Effect of Piracy on Computer Software, Audio Cassettes and Video Cassettes.": Program Evaluation ¶1. Summary: In cooperation with the National Center for Intellectual Property (NCIP) and the ECON Section, PAS Amman conducted the fourth and final DVC program of a series on IPR on Wednesday, September 4 at 1400 GMT. The Audience consisted of about sixty lawyers, businessmen, IT specialists, government officials and academicians who displayed great interest in the topic at hand. ¶2. The 75 minute session took place in the Public Affair's Auditorium. ¶3. Date: September 4, 2002; Fourth Quarter FY-2002 ¶4. The DVC program focused on the legality of producing computer software and audio cassettes as well as the laws enforced in protecting these goods. Ms. Kiefer used a power point slide show when elaborating on the subject and discussed the importance of preventing unauthorized users from making use of copyrighted materials. Mr. Christopher Merriam who made a surprise appearance and participated in the program also discussed the importance of protecting material and he stipulated "IPR protects industries from being damaged by Piracy" and that it also promotes the growth of these industries. ¶5. MPP Goal: This program supported the MPP goals on economic reform and promoting understanding and appreciation of U.S society and values. ¶6. The Jordanian audience was enthusiastic and attendance for the program was very good. Many of their topics of concern were addressed, however the power point slideshow was too lengthy and interactive dialogue would have been the audience's preference. ¶7. Three ISDN lines were used to make the connection. These ISDN lines yielded a very good picture, resolution and sound. The connection was obstructed once but we were reconnected instantly. ¶8. Quality of Support: Very Good. PAS Amman appreciates the support of IIP/G/NEA and NEA/PPD. Many thanks go to Ms. Inga McMichael for her support. We look forward to continued cooperation on future programs. GNEHM