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Cybersecurity & Standards, Free Expression

“Regardless of Frontiers”: The International Right to Freedom of Expression in the Digital Age

The Internet empowers individuals around the world with the potential to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas in unprecedented ways.  However, the Internet is under pressure as governments grapple with new challenges associated with this unique medium.  CDT is releasing version 0.5 of our report, “Regardless of Frontiers:” The International Right to Freedom of Expression in the Digital Age.  This report explores how the internationally recognized right to freedom of expression should apply to the Internet.  It examines existing jurisprudence from major international and regional human rights instruments and explores new challenges (and opportunities) for freedom of expression in the digital age.  Finally, given the unique nature of the Internet, the report puts forth progressive interpretations of human rights norms to ensure the broadest extension of human rights protections in the digital age.

“Regardless of Frontiers” is intended to spark further research, discussion, and action among government, civil society, and industry actors.  CDT is releasing version 0.5 of this paper as a discussion draft, which we will revise with stakeholder feedback.