Moving Java to Main
Written 12 Jan 2004
There is work underway to move Java programs into Debian::Main. From what I gather, Java programs at the moment cannot be placed into Main because of their dependency on a non-free virtual machine: the Java VM. This dependency is not compliant with the Debian Free Software Guidelines, or more accurately, the license Sun uses to govern the Java VM is not DFSG.<?p>
To this point all Java programs in Debian currently reside in Contrib. However as noted above, work is underway to resolved this problem. The resolution lies in using a non-Sun JVM such as Kaffe, GCJ and others. A nice list is found here
What problems lie along this route?
- Cannot use Java branding
- Compatibility
- Possibly others(?)
Of these, #1 is easy to get around by stating such technologies are Java™-compatible, with a pertinent footnote attributing the Java trademark to Sun microsystems. #2 is more difficult in the sense it requires time and effort to develop clean-room implementations of the Java language. For example, checkout the compatibility page on Kaffe's site and the status page on GJC's site.
Both projects appear fast moving, giving hope that eventually this problem will be fully resolved, not just for Debian, but for all developers that want to work with Free software.