UN says disrupting internet access violates human rights

UN passes a resolution stating that disrupting internet access is a violation of human rights. Image INQUIRER.net

The United Nations Human Rights Council recently passed a non-binding resolution that condemns countries that intentionally disrupt their citizens’ internet access.

This resolution reaffirms the organization’s stance that people’s rights offline are applicable and protected online. It is covered particularly under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

However, some countries including China, Russia, India, South Africa and Saudi Arabia opposed the resolution. These nations called for the UN to delete a passage that “condemns unequivocal measures to intentionally prevent or disrupt access to our dissemination of information online,” The Verge reported.

While these resolutions are not legally enforceable, it does put pressure on governments. It also provides credence to the actions of digital rights advocates. The UN’s resolution is also timely as more governments shut down internet access to control their citizens. Alfred Bayle