Welcome to the GNU Project web server. The GNU Project was launched in 1984 to develop a complete UNIX like operating system which is free software: the GNU system (GNU is a recursive acronym for “GNU's Not UNIX”; it is pronounced guh-noo, like canoe). Variants of the GNU operating system, which use the kernel Linux, are now widely used; though these systems are often referred to as “Linux”, they are more accurately called GNU/Linux systems.

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We support the FSF's mission to preserve, protect and promote the freedom to use, study, copy, modify, and redistribute computer software, and to defend the rights of Free Software users. We support the freedoms of speech, press, and association on the Internet, the right to use encryption software for private communication, and the right to write software unimpeded by private monopolies. You can also read more about these issues by subscribing to the independent Free Software Magazine.

GNUs Flashes

For other news, as well as for items that used to be in this GNUs Flashes section, see What's New in and about the GNU Project.

Take Action

• GPLv3: Participate in the drafting of GPLv3.
• US citizens: Sign EFF's petition in favor of music sharing
• Long-term contribution: Contribute to these high priority projects: 3D driver for ATI graphics cards, Gnash (the GNU Flash Player), GNU Compiler for Java, and GNU Classpath.
• US citizens: Support Public Knowledge against the "broadcast flag"
• World wide: Call on WIPO to change its name and mission.
• World wide: Raise awareness of dangers of WIPO Broadcast Treaty.
• In Europe: Fight against software patents.
• US citizens: Sign petitions against software patents and the DMCA.
• Long-term contribution: Take over an unmaintained GNU package: a2ps, fontutils, idutils, thales.
• Add to the Free Software Directory.

Other Action Items