The United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC), in its 20th session, has unanimously passed a resolution confirming Internet access being a fundamental human right. The resolution states that people should be able to express themselves freely on the Internet, same as they do in the real world.
Even countries like China, who are known for their internet censorship have backed the resolution along with all the 47 members of the UN Human Rights Council.
India, who had previously opposed this idea was also one of the members who have supported the resolution.
Highlights of UNHRC resolution on Internet Freedom
1.) The resolution affirms that same rights that people have in the real world must be extended to online world, in particular freedom of expression, which is applicable regardless of their geographical boundaries.
2.) The resolution seconds the open nature of Internet and agrees that it is the driving force in accelerating progress towards development in its various forms.
3.) The resolution urges all countries and states to promote and facilitate access to the internet and calls upon international co-operation to develop media and communication facilities for their citizens
4) The UNHRC will continue its consideration of the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights, including the right to freedom of expression, on the Internet, as well as of how the Internet can be an important tool for development and for exercising human rights.
With UN passing this resolution, countries across the world will now be more careful in censoring the activities of their citizens. This probably is one of the most important decisions that will shape how consumers, corporations and governments will use internet in the future.
Would love to hear your comments on this!
[Full text of Resolution]
good to knw! :)