UN: Internet Access Is Now A Basic Human Right
by Terry Heick
For educators (incredibly) still on the face about this whole ‘internet’ thing, there’s some (somewhat recent) news that you might find interesting.
On June 27 2016, the United Nations made a series of statements that collectively describe internet access as a basic human right. You can read the full statement in the previous link, while three of the more general and symbolic ideas are shown below:
- Condemns unequivocally measures to intentionally prevent or disrupt access to or dissemination of information online in violation of international human rights law and calls on all States to refrain from and cease such measures;
- Calls upon all States to consider formulating, through transparent and inclusive processes with all stakeholders, and adopting national Internet-related public policies that have the objective of universal access and enjoyment of human rights at their core;
- Decides to continue its consideration of the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights, including the right to freedom of expression, on the Internet and other information and communication technology, as well as of how the Internet can be an important tool for fostering citizen and civil society participation, for the realization of development in every community and for exercising human rights, in accordance with its programme of work.
UN: Internet Access Is Now A Basic Human Right