Open raw data and their value as fuel for the economy was one of the topics discussed intensively in the Open Data Camp, the largest event dedicated Open Data in the world, hosted by Poland on 20-21 October 2011. In the context of starting an open data project at local level, Moldova was one of the 40 countries participating at the event, represented by Olga Demian, Legal Consultant at the Center for Electronic Governance in Moldova.

The conference covered key issues concerning the importance of government transparency, open data regarding public expenses, civil society participation in open data initiatives, open data costs. One of the key messages, repeated by several participants in the discussions, was the legitimacy of citizens having access to public data for which they have already paid.

Moreover, examples of initiatives from several countries worldwide such as the Netherlands, Germany, Brazil were presented. Also, during the discussion it was outlined the theory of a development stage resulted through the continous developing of open programs, which transcends the use of technology for the delivery of services to citizens.

Andrew Rasiej, entrepreneur and founder of Personal Democracy Forum events, says that next stage of development would lead to perspective change and the creation of an "We-Government" (Government of citizens), in the sense that as more data are made public by governments, citizens themselves begin to create applications, platforms, tools that can assist people in their social activity.

By participating in the conference, The E- Government Center  in the Republic of Moldova joins world governments that support the importance of raw data in a country's economic development, considering that this could also have a positive consequence on Moldova’s economy.

The international community present at the event warmly welcomed Moldova's presence at the conference. In this context, there were a number of messages addresed to support the Government initiative to open the data for citizens.

Rufus Pollock, co-founder of the Open Knowledge Foundation and one of the organizers of the Open Date Camp has encouraged Republic of Moldova’ efforts: "Open data now! Keep the simplicity and allow access to raw data. Encourage community participation and use simple tools, such as a data hub. " (Open data means)

Tom Steinberg, founder and director of the My Society organization focused on raising awareness among citizens regarding the value of open data and their real benefits, commenting: "Give citizens the right to data, don’t give them data as a gift."

Andrew Stott, nominated by the UK Coalition Government to represent the Public Sector Transparency Board, which advises the public sector regarding opened data, sent a message to Moldova. Leader of Local Data Panel, responsible for local administration approaches to the promotion and development of opened data commented: "Moldova, don’t be afraid to ask for help because there is an international community enthusiastic about opened data within and outside governments. "

The conference was organized by the Open Knowledge Foundation (UK) and Centrum Cyfrowa (Poland). Further considerations and conclusions on the main topics discussed can be found on the website dedicated to the event.