Freedom of Expression and the Internet

“This book sets out to answer key questions regarding the extent and limits of freedom of expression online. It seeks to shed light on the often-obscure landscape of what we are allowed to say online and how our ideas, and the process of imparting and receiving information, are protected. It shows the large ambit of rights protected by freedom of expression, including freedom of the media and the right to access information, and confirms that all aspects of the communicative process, offline just as online, are protected by freedom of expression. The book makes an important point by making clear that freedom of expression online must be protected just like freedom of expression offline, taking into account the nature of the Internet, its asynchronicity, ubiquity and speed. The book also wishes to highlight the importance of the standard-setting, monitoring and promotion activities of international and non-governmental organisations. Freedom of expression online touches all aspects of society and does so in all societies. We have therefore included a chapter on relevant national practices to illustrate how different States deal with the challenge that the Internet has brought to ensuring freedom of expression for all. The book makes another important point in showing that freedom of expression implies obligations for all actors on the Internet. States must respect, protect and ensure freedom of expression online just as much as offline; Internet companies have to respect and protect freedom of expression, implement it within their sphere and remedy violations. Civil society has an important watchdog function and the individuals it comprises must ensure that, in making use of their freedom of expression, they do not violate the rights of others.”