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Faculty of informatics
Department of Information system
Information System Group Assignment
Group members. ID .No_
1. ASHENAFI NIGATU 0193/15
2. ATEMA FEYDU 0200/15
3. AYDA JEMAL 0203/15
4. BAMLAK FENTAHUN 0513/15
5. BEDASA NEGASH 0219/15
6. RUHAMA GIRMACHEW 1214/15
7.RUTH MELAKU 1219/15
8. SAMRAWIT HAILEMARIAM 1227/15
9. SAMUEL LEMMA 1241/15
10. SELAM KIBROM 1270/15
11. SIMON ESAYAS 1297/15
Submission date 01/06/2016 E.C
Submitted to Ms.mebrhit.G
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Freedom of Expression and Censorship
Introduction
Freedom of expression and censorship are fundamental issues that have been debated for
centuries. The ability to freely express one's thoughts and opinions is a cornerstone of
democratic societies, allowing individuals to participate in public discourse, hold those in power
accountable, and foster intellectual and cultural growth. However, this freedom is often
challenged by various forms of censorship, both overt and subtle, that seek to control or limit
the flow of information.
In the digital age, the debate around freedom of expression has taken on new dimensions as
online platforms have become primary spaces for communication and information sharing.
Governments and private entities increasingly impose restrictions on online expression, citing
concerns such as national security, hate speech, misinformation, and copyright infringement.
These restrictions can stifle dissent, limit access to diverse viewpoints, and curtail the free
exchange of ideas.
Balancing freedom of expression with the need for censorship requires careful consideration of
public interests and values. Transparency in decision-making processes, clear guidelines for
content moderation, and mechanisms for accountability are essential to ensure that restrictions
on expression are justified and proportionate. It is crucial to strike a balance between
protecting individual rights and safeguarding broader societal interests, such as public safety
and the prevention of harm.
Efforts to protect digital rights and privacy are ongoing, with advocacy groups and civil society
organizations working to promote policies that uphold fundamental freedoms in the online
space. The right to privacy is closely linked to freedom of expression, as surveillance practices
can have a chilling effect on individuals' willingness to speak out and engage in public debate.
Governments and private entities must adhere to legal standards and oversight mechanisms to
prevent abuses of power and protect individuals' rights to privacy and expression.
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Surveillance technologies raise significant concerns about their impact on freedom of
expression and privacy. Mass surveillance programs, both by governments and private
companies, have the potential to infringe on individuals' rights without their knowledge or
consent. Establishing accountable frameworks for surveillance is crucial to ensure that these
practices are conducted lawfully, with clear safeguards against abuse and violations of rights.
Public awareness plays a vital role in shaping surveillance practices and policies. By engaging in
informed debates about the legality, necessity, and implications of surveillance measures,
individuals can hold decision-makers accountable and advocate for stronger protections of
digital rights. It is essential for governments to consult with the public, civil society, and
technical experts when developing surveillance policies to ensure that they respect
fundamental rights and are subject to meaningful oversight.
The debate around freedom of expression and censorship in the digital age requires a nuanced
approach that considers the complex interplay between individual rights, public interests, and
technological advancements. Upholding transparency, accountability, and respect for
fundamental freedoms is essential to safeguarding democratic values in the online space and
ensuring that all individuals can exercise their right to express themselves freely while also
protecting their privacy.
The meaning of freedom of Expression and Censorship
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right that allows individuals to express their thoughts
without censorship. It is enshrined in various international human rights instruments, such as
the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights. This right enables individuals to freely seek, receive, and impart information and ideas
through any media, regardless of frontiers. On the other hand, censorship refers to the
suppression of certain information or expression for reasons such as national security, public
order, or public morality. The relationship between freedom of expression and censorship is
complex and often debated. Supporters of freedom of expression argue that it promotes
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progress, individual liberties, and the exchange of diverse ideas essential for a democratic
society. However, proponents of limited censorship believe that it can prevent harm, protect
marginalized groups from hate speech or discrimination, and maintain social harmony.
Balancing these rights requires thoughtful consideration, transparency, and due process.
Societies aim to strike a justified balance between freedom of expression and public interests
through ongoing discussions that shape policies to ensure democratic limitations on expression.
The Right of Expression, Communication, and Association through the Internet
The right to expression, communication, and association through the internet is fundamental in
modern society, as the online space has become a vital platform for
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individuals to share ideas, engage in discussions, and connect with others. The internet
provides a powerful tool for people to express themselves freely, communicate across borders,
and form communities based on shared interests or beliefs. This digital realm allows for the
exchange of information and opinions, fostering dialogue and facilitating social interactions on
a global scale.
However, the exercise of these rights is not without challenges. Governments, internet service
providers, and other entities may impose restrictions on online expression and communication,
limiting individuals' ability to freely express themselves or access information. Censorship,
surveillance, and technical restrictions can impede the flow of information, stifle dissenting
voices, and curtail the right to freedom of expression and association online. Such limitations
threaten the openness and inclusivity of the internet, hindering individuals' ability to engage in
meaningful conversations and participate in democratic processes.
Efforts are underway to protect and promote these rights in the digital realm. Advocacy for a
free and open internet seeks to uphold principles of freedom of expression, access to
information, and digital rights. Organizations and activists advocate for policies that safeguard
individuals' right to privacy, combat censorship, and promote net neutrality to ensure that all
internet traffic is treated equally. By advocating for these principles, stakeholders aim to create
an online environment that fosters open dialogue, respects individuals' rights, and promotes a
diverse and inclusive digital community.
International human rights frameworks recognize the importance of these rights in the digital
realm. Documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirm the right to
freedom of expression and association, emphasizing their significance in promoting democracy,
tolerance, and social progress. These frameworks provide a basis for protecting individuals'
rights online and guide efforts to uphold these principles in practice.
Ongoing debates and discussions shape policies for an inclusive and open online space.
Governments, civil society organizations, internet service providers, and other stakeholders
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engage in dialogue to address challenges such as censorship, surveillance, and technical
restrictions on the internet. By working together to develop transparent and accountable
policies, stakeholders can promote a free, secure, and accessible internet that upholds the
rights of all individuals to express themselves, communicate freely, and associate with others
online.
The right to expression, communication, and association through the internet is essential for
fostering a vibrant and inclusive digital society. By protecting these rights, advocating for a free
and open internet, and upholding international human rights standards, stakeholders can
ensure that individuals have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, access
diverse viewpoints, and participate in democratic processes online. By promoting a free and
open online space that respects individuals' rights and values diversity, societies can harness
the full potential of the internet as a platform for expression, communication, and association.
Censorship and Technical Restriction on the Internet Access
Censorship and technical restrictions on internet access are practices that limit the free flow of
information and impede individuals' freedom of expression online. Censorship involves blocking
or removing content deemed undesirable or harmful by governments, internet service
providers, or other entities, while technical restrictions control access to certain websites or
services through measures such as filtering or throttling.
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These practices have significant implications for open dialogue, democratic participation, and
human rights. By censoring or restricting access to information, individuals are deprived of the
opportunity to express themselves freely, access diverse viewpoints, and engage in informed
discussions. This can hinder the development of a vibrant and inclusive online community,
undermine democratic values, and limit individuals' ability to exercise their fundamental
rights.The extent of Internet censorship varies on a country-to-country basis. While some
countries have moderate Internet censorship, other countries go as far as to limit the access of
information such as news and suppress and silence discussion among citizens.Internet
censorship also occurs in response to or in anticipation of events such as elections, protests,
and riots. An example is the increased censorship due to the events of the Arab Spring.
Efforts to combat censorship and technical restrictions on internet access include advocating
for digital rights and net neutrality. Digital rights encompass the principles of freedom of
expression, privacy, and access to information online, and advocacy efforts seek to protect
these rights from infringement by censorship and technical restrictions. Net neutrality, on the
other hand, refers to the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally, without
discrimination or preferential treatment by internet service providers.
Balancing the need for security with respect for individual rights in the online space is a
complex and multifaceted challenge that requires careful consideration of various factors. The
digital realm presents unique opportunities and challenges, as it enables unprecedented
connectivity and access to information while also raising concerns about privacy, cybersecurity,
and the potential for abuse of power. To address these issues effectively, it is essential to
establish transparent policies and adhere to international standards that safeguard individual
rights while addressing security concerns.
The establishment of transparent policies is crucial in balancing security needs with respect for
individual rights in the online space. Transparency ensures that the public is informed about the
measures taken to enhance security and the potential impact on their rights. Clear and
accessible policies enable individuals to understand the rationale behind security measures and
hold governments and other stakeholders accountable for their actions. Transparency also
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fosters trust between citizens and authorities, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and
democratic online environment.
Adherence to international standards is fundamental in ensuring that security measures in the
online space respect individual rights. International human rights instruments, such as the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), provide a comprehensive framework for
protecting fundamental rights in the digital realm. The UDHR, adopted by the United Nations
General Assembly in 1948, enshrines principles such as the right to freedom of expression
(Article 19) and the right to access information (Article 27). These principles serve as a guide for
governments and other stakeholders in formulating policies that balance security imperatives
with respect for individual rights.
Governments and other stakeholders must ensure that any measures taken to address security
concerns are lawful, necessary, and proportionate. This principle is central to upholding
individual rights while safeguarding against potential threats in the online space. Laws and
regulations governing cybersecurity and digital surveillance should be consistent with
international human rights standards and subject to judicial oversight to prevent abuse of
power. Moreover, any restrictions on freedom of expression or access to information should be
justified by legitimate security concerns and proportionate to the threat at hand.
One of the key considerations in balancing security needs with respect for individual rights is
the protection of freedom of expression in the online space. While security measures may be
necessary to combat illegal activities such as cybercrime or terrorism, they should not unduly
restrict individuals’ ability to express themselves freely online. Governments should refrain
from implementing overly broad or vague laws that could stifle legitimate speech or infringe
upon the right to dissent. Furthermore, efforts to combat disinformation or harmful content
should be pursued in a manner that upholds freedom of expression and avoids censorship.
Balancing security with respect for individual rights also entails ensuring continued access to
information in the online space. The internet serves as a vital platform for accessing knowledge,
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participating in public discourse, and engaging with diverse perspectives. Security measures
should not impede individuals’ ability to seek, receive, and impart information online, as this
would undermine democratic values and hinder intellectual development. Governments should
promote policies that facilitate access to information while addressing legitimate security
concerns through targeted and proportionate measures.
Balancing the need for security with respect for individual rights in the online space requires a
thoughtful approach that prioritizes transparency, adherence to international standards,
lawfulness, necessity, proportionality, protection of freedom of expression, and access to
information. By upholding these principles, governments and other stakeholders can mitigate
security risks while preserving fundamental rights in the digital realm.
Ongoing discussions and collaborations among governments, civil society organizations,
internet service providers, and other stakeholders are essential to maintain an open and
inclusive online space. By engaging in dialogue, sharing best practices, and developing common
approaches to addressing censorship and technical restrictions, stakeholders can work together
to promote a free, secure, and accessible internet for all individuals. By upholding the principles
of transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights in the online environment,
societies can navigate the challenges posed by censorship and technical restrictions while
safeguarding the fundamental rights of all individuals.
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Surveillance
Surveillance is a practice that involves the monitoring of behaviour, activities of individuals or
information for the purpose of information gathering ,influencing managing or directing . It can
take many forms, from government agencies monitoring citizens for security purposes to
private companies tracking consumer behavior for marketing purposes. While surveillance can
serve legitimate purposes such as preventing crime or ensuring national security, it also raises
significant concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and the abuse of power.
One of the primary concerns associated with surveillance is the invasion of privacy . Individuals
have a right to privacy, and unwarranted surveillance can violate this right by intruding into
their personal lives without their consent and often criticized by civil liberties. This invasion of
privacy can have far-reaching consequences, undermining trust in institutions and eroding
individual autonomy.
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Another major concern related to surveillance is the chilling effect it can have on freedom of
expression. When individuals know they are being monitored, they may self-censor their
thoughts and opinions out of fear of repercussions. This can stifle public discourse, limit the
diversity of viewpoints, and undermine democratic values.
Surveillance also raises ethical and legal issues, particularly when it is conducted without proper
oversight or accountability. The potential for abuse of power by those conducting surveillance is
a significant risk, as unchecked surveillance can lead to discrimination, harassment, and other
forms of harm.
Surveillance is a critical tool for maintaining national security and public safety. However, it also
raises significant concerns about privacy and individual rights. Balancing the need for
surveillance with respect for individual rights requires the establishment of transparent and
accountable frameworks.
Clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms are essential to ensure that surveillance practices
are lawful, necessary, and proportionate to the threat they aim to address. Transparent
frameworks provide clarity on the circumstances under which surveillance can be conducted,
the types of data that can be collected, and the purposes for which it can be used.
Accountability mechanisms, such as regular audits and reporting requirements, help ensure
that surveillance activities are conducted in compliance with established guidelines.
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Safeguards such as data protection laws, encryption technologies, and independent oversight
bodies can help mitigate the risks associated with surveillance and protect individuals’ rights.
Data protection laws establish rules for the collection, use, and retention of personal data,
ensuring that individuals have control over their information. Encryption technologies
safeguard communications and data from unauthorized access, enhancing privacy protections.
Independent oversight bodies provide an additional layer of scrutiny to ensure that surveillance
activities adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Public awareness and advocacy play a crucial role in shaping surveillance practices and policies.
By engaging in informed debates, raising awareness about the implications of surveillance, and
advocating for stronger privacy protections, individuals can influence the development of
surveillance policies that strike a balance between security needs and respect for fundamental
rights.
Continuous assessment of surveillance practices is essential to ensure their legality, necessity,
and respect for privacy. Regular reviews, audits, and evaluations can help identify any abuses or
shortcomings in surveillance programs and provide opportunities for improvement. By
upholding transparency, accountability, and respect for individual rights, societies can navigate
the complexities of surveillance in a way that upholds democratic values and protects the rights
of all individuals.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding freedom of expression and censorship in the digital age underscores
the importance of upholding fundamental rights while navigating the complexities of online
communication. Balancing these rights requires a multifaceted approach that includes
transparency, consideration of public interests, and adherence to due process. The challenges
posed by restrictions on online expression by governments and private entities highlight the
ongoing need for efforts to protect digital rights through advocacy and policy initiatives.
The intersection of surveillance practices with privacy and freedom of expression raises
significant concerns that must be addressed through the establishment of accountable
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frameworks and robust oversight mechanisms. Public awareness and advocacy play a crucial
role in shaping surveillance policies to ensure that they are lawful, necessary, and respectful of
individuals' rights to privacy and expression.
By engaging in informed debates and holding decision-makers accountable, individuals can
contribute to the development of policies that strike a balance between protecting
fundamental rights and addressing legitimate concerns related to security and public safety.
Upholding transparency, accountability, and respect for individual freedoms is essential to
safeguarding democratic values in the digital age and ensuring that all individuals can exercise
their right to express themselves freely while also protecting their privacy.
In essence, the ongoing dialogue on freedom of expression, censorship, and digital rights
underscores the need for a holistic approach that values individual liberties, promotes
transparency, and fosters an environment where diverse viewpoints can be freely expressed
and debated. By upholding these principles, societies can uphold democratic values, protect
fundamental rights, and create a more inclusive and informed public discourse in the digital
age.To sum up, right and duty are two sides of the same coin. Although rights should be
respected, if it violates the rights of others, it should be limited and controlled.
References
Universal Declaration of Human Rights: https://www.un.org/en/universal-declaration-human-
rights/
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights:
https://www.ohchr.org/en/professionalinterest/pages/ccpr.aspx
Reporters Without Borders: https://rsf.org/en
Electronic Frontier Foundation: https://www.eff.org/
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Article 19: https://www.article19.org/
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights: https://www.ohchr.org/en
Freedom House: https://freedomhouse.org/
UNESCO: https://en.unesco.org/
The Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University:
https://cyber.harvard.edu/
PEN International: https://pen-international.org/
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