“The unique features of the Internet ...have also created fear among Governments and the powerful,” UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression Frank La Rue warned that fearful Governments are increasingly restricting the flow of information on the Internet due to its potential to mobilize people to challenge the status quo. (From UNHRC Statement) Tool of Change “In recent months, we have seen a growing movement of people around the world who are advocating for change – for justice, equality, accountability of the powerful and better respect for human rights,” Mr. La Rue said while presenting his new report* on the right to freedom of opinion and expression on the Internet to the UN Human Rights Council. “However, the unique features of the Internet, which allow individuals to spread information instantly, to organize themselves, and to inform the world about situations of injustice and inequality, have also created fear among Governments and the powerful,” In his report, Mr. La Rue explores key trends and challenges to the right of all individuals to exercise their right to freedom of expression, as guaranteed in article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Existing Rules of Free Media & Freedom of Expression Largely Should Apply While noting that the Internet is a relatively new communication medium, the expert stressed the applicability of the international human rights framework when assessing whether Governments are unduly restricting the flow of information online. Criminalization of “Legitimate Expression” “Legitimate expression continues to be criminalized in many States, illustrated by the fact that in 2010, more than 100 bloggers were imprisoned, Governments are using increasingly sophisticated technologies to block content, and to monitor and identify activists and critics. There should be as little restriction as possible to the flow of information via the Internet, except in a few, very exceptional, and limited circumstances prescribed by international human rights law, Essentially, this means that any restriction must be clearly provided by law, and proven to be necessary and the least intrusive means available for the purpose of protecting the rights of others,” added La Rue. The Special Rapporteur also called upon Governments to develop a concrete and effective plan of action to make the Internet widely available, accessible and affordable to all segments of the population. Frank La Rue (Guatemala) was appointed as Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression in August 2008 by the United Nations Human Rights Council. As Special Rapporteur, he is independent from any government or organization and serves in his individual capacity. END of MR. LA RUE’s STATEMENT As “Long as We Can Control It” The evolution of the Internet and its opportunities reminds me in the early 1990’s when I was enthusiastically told by a government official still clinging in the transition from the Communist state: “We are enthusiastically looking to adopt economic free market as long as the state can control it.” More Related Reports at “War Crimes Justice” Channel - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/c/war-crimes-justice ---“Press Freedom More Relevant in Digital Era” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/blog_post/press-freedom-more-relevant-than-ever-in-digital-era-un-stresses/27714 ---“FILM REPORT – World Press Freedom Day” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/movie/world-press-freedom-jailed-iran-journalist-honored/26626 By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey Facebook Become Fan at “Bosnia TV” and “Diplomatically Incorrect” Twitter – Follow us at DiplomaticallyX