UNESCO speaks of the need for a global discussion on the right to freedom of expression, as well as the protection of privacy in cyberspace.
The World Social Science Forum, which took place in Montreal, Canada, on October 13-15, 2013, provided the opportunity to hold a debate on freedom of expression on the Internet.
The topic of discussion focused on the revision of the concept of freedom of expression within the information society.
The five speakers from the Canadian Commission for UNESCO approached the topic from different perspectives. As a sign of the times, Julian Saada from the University of Montreal joined the conference via computer from France to present the complex relationships of cyber activists with journalism during the Arab Spring.
Laura Tribe, as a representative of the Canadian Journalists Association, emphasized the power of the internet on free speech. Reinforcing this position, award-winning journalist Steven Strauss emphasized the pluralism of information received through the internet and through direct contact with the authenticity of bloggers.
UNESCO's Director of Freedom of Expression and Media Development, Guy Berger, emphasized that a short scenario about the "globalization" of the internet can have a direct impact on human rights and a broad "participation" of users.
UNESCO recognizes that the Internet has many potentials for development. It provides diverse sources of information and knowledge, as well as opportunities for expression and participation.
UNESCO highlights, however, the responsibility of the internet to promote freedom of expression. The value of freedom of expression, as a human right, should not only be adopted by traditional media, but also by the entire online space.
Instilling freedom of expression through media platforms will contribute to development, democracy and dialogue.
The absolute freedom of access to information in cyberspace has, according to a UNESCO document, reversed the primary objectives of its use and values.
However, multiple factors are intertwined in shaping the boundaries of free expression on the internet, such as censorship and control of its content by politicians and not only institutions.
The real challenge is to promote the potential of new media to the fullest extent, without harming citizens' freedoms, including the right to freedom of expression, education, and privacy.
UNESCO has been seeking to spark a global debate on the issue of freedom of expression on the internet through its report since 2010.
He has organized a series of workshops at the WSSF (World Social Science Forum), as well as meetings since 2006 at the Internet Governance Forum, with the aim of promoting public debate on freedom of expression and the protection of privacy on the internet.
The next conference will be held in South Africa, in the city of Durban, in 2015.
Source: portal.kathimerini.gr
