The United Nations has this week recognized internet access as a human right and declared internet access a human right as well as amending Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This amendment emphasizes the role of the internet in society as a key player in enabling individuals to exercise their rights to freedom of opinion and expression.
The internet has become much more of a tool for communication. It’s a gateway to information, education, and participation in public life including providing a platform for marginalized voices, facilitating the exchange of ideas, and supports economic development through digital economies.
Recognizing internet access as a human right emphasizes the necessity of digital inclusion for all individuals, regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic status.
Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights originally stated that “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”
The amendment now explicitly includes the internet as a medium through which these rights should be exercised, ensuring that individuals have the right to access and utilize online resources without restriction.
The recognition of internet access as a human right strengthens the argument against government censorship and the unjust restriction on online content. It also calls for the protection of digital rights and the free flow of information.
While this recognition is a significant step forward, there are still several bottlenecks. n the issue. For instance, ensuring universal internet access requires substantial investment in infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas especially for Africa.