Protecting Freedom of Expression over the Internet: An International Approach

Notre Dame Journal of International & Comparative Law, Vol. 5, No. 1, 2015

31 Pages Posted: 12 Jun 2020 Last revised: 16 Dec 2020

See all articles by Alan M. Sears

Alan M. Sears

Center for Law and Digital Technologies (eLaw), Leiden Law School, Leiden University

Date Written: 2015

Abstract

Writing primarily in 2013, Alan Sears examines different aspects of the international legal framework as to how freedom of expression over the Internet may be protected. Even though the Internet has largely incorporated the concept of freedom of expression from its inception, the need for such protection has become increasingly evident. States around the world have progressively cracked down on Internet speech, a trend highlighted by recent events occurring during the Arab Spring. Alan thus focuses on the Middle East when exploring how Internet governance may be shaped, and human rights and trade agreements may be utilized, in order to make sure that the freedom of expression over the Internet remains respected. He discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the different frameworks, suggests proposals for improvements, and argues for the importance of engaging with different stakeholders in decision-making processes to better meet this end.

Keywords: human rights, fundamental rights, freedom of expression, Internet, internet governance, ICCPR, CDHRI, UPR, trade agreements

Suggested Citation

Sears, Alan M., Protecting Freedom of Expression over the Internet: An International Approach (2015). Notre Dame Journal of International & Comparative Law, Vol. 5, No. 1, 2015, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3604937

Alan M. Sears (Contact Author)

Center for Law and Digital Technologies (eLaw), Leiden Law School, Leiden University ( email )

P.O. Box 9520
2300 RA Leiden, NL-2300RA
Netherlands

HOME PAGE: http://https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/staffmembers/alan-m.-sears

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