Internet Rights Are Human Rights Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Association and Democracy: New Issues and Threats

Abstract

The links between ICTs, human rights and democratisation appear undeniable. This article explores current issues surrounding the use of ICTs and considers the implications of these issues for human rights. The article includes a case study based on research in Malaysia by the Open Network Initiative Asia Gender Research Team October 2009, ‘Gender Research Framework: Internet Censorship and Surveillance Practices A Gendered Perspective to Internet Censorship and Surveillance in Malaysia.’ The author concludes with a call for a fresh look at the foundations of the Internet Governance Forum and human rights – in light of the issues raised – and for human rights to be the main theme of IGF in 2012.