The French government has launched a public consultation to gather views on the metaverse, also known as the “virtual immersive universe.” The consultation seeks input from citizens, businesses, associations, and researchers on their experiences, concerns, and potential obstacles faced while entering the virtual realm. The French Directorate General for Enterprise noted that the consultation aims to shape a French strategy for the upcoming sector and provide an alternative to the “international giants.” The consultation provides different questionnaires for each stakeholder, mainly focusing on the level of knowledge surrounding virtual spaces, demand for such spaces, and challenges involved.
Both businesses and researchers are being asked about areas that should be prioritized for funding. The consultation comes after a panel discussion at Paris Blockchain Week in March, where industry professionals discussed how regulators might interpret what goes on in the metaverse and how businesses can enter it.