Nice Premium: Eric Ciotti, you just launched your new website: www.eric-ciotti.com. Why this change in web platform?
Eric Ciotti: I launched my first personal website during the campaign for the legislative elections in 2007. Unlike many candidates who abandon their sites or even close them immediately after the election, I wanted to keep utilizing this essential tool once elected. However, in the realm of the internet, as in all fields, technologies evolve very quickly. Therefore, after more than two years of activity, it seemed necessary to me to launch a new site, completely revamped, with a modernized architecture.
NP: What are the new features and future projects for this new site?
Eric Ciotti: From a graphical standpoint first, this site has been entirely redesigned to be more pleasant to browse. I also wanted it to be more interactive by inviting internet users to respond to each of the published articles. I regularly post questionnaires to understand the opinions of internet users on current topics. However, in the coming weeks, I intend to continue evolving my personal site to take into account the feedback I receive.
NP: Do you think that the internet is indispensable to politics today?
Eric Ciotti: Who could deny it? The internet allows for real-time communication and information dissemination. It also allows any citizen who wishes to have their own communication tool. But this also raises the question of freedom of expression. The internet is a free space where anyone can express themselves on any subject without control. Anyone can post “stolen” photos or videos. All this requires reflection, without falling into censorship.
NP: You are also present on Facebook. Is this a new mode of communication for elected officials and political leaders?
Eric Ciotti: Facebook is a vast network that enables connections among people from very different geographical or social origins. It’s an original mode of communication that I appreciate and use, but which should not replace a more comprehensive site.
NP: Finally, are you an internet user yourself? How much time do you spend online per week and what are your favorite sites?
Eric Ciotti: I appreciate the internet, but I think it’s important not to overuse it at the risk of disconnecting from more traditional information sources and direct human relationships. Nonetheless, it’s true that I regularly check news sites like Nice Premium from my iPhone or a desktop computer.
