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Freedom of Expression Online
Understanding Digital Rights and freedom of expression online is crucial to protecting human rights, as little of our lives remain immune from the forces of tech and the internet. Digital rights are human rights in the digital realm, but there is a tension between human rights and rising restrictions on access to online spaces.
Modules
Media Defence has developed a series of modules that provide an overview of the ways in which access to the internet and online content are commonly restricted around the world.
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Sub-Saharan Africa
Introduction to Digital Rights – Sub-Saharan Africa
Introduction Digital rights are human rights in the digital realm. The term ‘digital rights’ speaks to questions about how the same rights that are fundamental to all humans — such as freedom…
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April 2025 -
Sub-Saharan Africa
Access to the Internet – Sub-Saharan Africa
Is there a Right to the Internet under International Law? The internet has transformed the free flow of information, empowering anyone with an internet connection to gather and share information and ideas,…
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April 2025 -
Sub-Saharan Africa
General Overview of Trends in Digital Rights Globally – Sub-Saharan Africa
Key Insights Introduction Over the last decade, the number of internet users worldwide has more than doubled. As of January 2024, the digital population consists of over 5.3 billion people.(1) In Africa,…
Read moreFebruary 2025
Apply for case support
We support journalists – including citizen journalists, bloggers, broadcasters, photojournalists, cartoonists or fact-checkers – and news outlets when they are confronted with legal action as a result of their reporting.
Media Defence’s Resources
Explore Media Defence’s resources for further insights on the topic. This includes factsheets authored by legal experts in the field, offering concise information on the issue, as well as Media Defence’s key cases and interventions at domestic and regional courts.
Additional Materials
Check out Additional Materials for valuable resources from peer organisations and trusted bodies, selected to complement our content and offer a comprehensive perspective on the topic.