censorship

This report captures the first results of a project aimed at creating generative processes and spaces for discussions in Bangladesh around free speech and hate speech and their implications which could continue beyond the scope and timeline of the project.

Concerned about how digital technologies bring new challenges to fighting censorship, APC member EsLaRed has been defending access to information and freedom of expression in restrictive environments, with a recent study focusing on communication blockades in Venezuela.

AI technologies, are still in their infancy, so there is still enormous potential to channel AI to address global challenges – but also much concern regarding its effects on social justice and the enjoyment of human rights. 

APC joined with an international coalition of over 90 civil society organisations in an open letter to Apple, calling on the company to abandon its recently announced plans to build surveillance capabilities into iPhones, iPads and other Apple products. 

APC and the more than 80 other organisations that comprise the Coalition welcome the dismissal of a cyber-libel charge against Rappler CEO and founder Maria Ressa in the Philippines – the second spurious charge against Ressa to be dropped in just two months.

APC joins with other civil society organisations to denounce the escalating situation of digital authoritarianism in India, including the efforts to intimidate web platforms into compliance with the government's censorship measures.

From 6 to 18 May 2021, 7amleh worked to document and respond to the digital rights violations occurring during the 2021 Israeli attacks on Gaza, on Palestinians in mixed cities in Israel, and forcible displacement of Palestinians in East Jerusalem.

The report shows increases in attacks on Palestinian digital rights and details the violations on various social media and technology platforms, including the spread of hate speech and incitement against Palestinians and Arabs in the Hebrew language.