U.N. Classifies Internet Access a Fundamental Human Right

On Friday, the U.N. Human Rights Council released a special report that underscores more than ever how important the Internet has become.  In doing so, they make a clear statement that limiting internet access in the 21st century is a serious restriction of human rights.

Specifically, that

(a) Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference; and

(b) Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.

The report further outlines the seminal role and nature of the Internet.

"The right to freedom of opinion and expression is as much a fundamental right on its own accord as it is an “enabler” of other rights, including economic, social and cultural rights, such as the right to education and the right to take part in cultural life and to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications, as well as civil and political rights, such as the rights to freedom of association and assembly. Thus, by acting as a catalyst for individuals to exercise their right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Internet also facilitates the realization of a range of other human rights."

The problem?  We have a long long way to go to insure the kind of universal access to the internet that will foster human freedom and communications between people(s).  The report notes that "in contrast to 71.6 Internet users per 100 inhabitants in developed States, there are only 21.1 Internet users per 100 inhabitants in developing States (and) is starker in the African region, with only 9.6 users per 100 inhabitants." 

Further, the report notes that "without Internet access, which facilitates economic development and the enjoyment of a range of human rights, marginalized groups and developing States remain trapped in a disadvantaged situation, thereby perpetuating inequality both within and between States."

Clearly, many of us agree.  A BBC study last year found that for 79% of those interviewed in 26 countries,  Internet access is a fundamental human right.

This has  never more important than it is right now, in the "Arab Spring".  As the report also notes, "the recent wave of demonstrations in countries across the Middle East and North African region has shown the key role that the Internet can play in mobilizing the population to call for justice, equality, accountability and better respect for human rights."