W5 : Silencing the Virtual World: The Rise of Internet Censorship

Internet censorship is on the rise, posing challenges to the free online flow of information and expression. Internet censorship is like all censorship, and it can take multiple forms from filtering and blocking content to monitoring and penalizing users who access certain content. The government can either decide what to block and directly implement the restrictions or even make laws and incentives to make technology companies do the blocking and monitoring. (Rochelle, n.d.)


 FUTURE VISION

In a future scenario approximately 30 to 40 years from now, an internet landscape where freedom of expression and access to information are safeguarded. This ideal state would involve a significantly improved version of the internet, where everyone can freely express their own thoughts and perspectives and engage in open dialogue easily without fear of censorship or even surveillance. It would be a space that fosters creativity, innovation and collaboration and benefit society.

 

SOLUTIONS

1. Decentralized Internet

Decentralized internet, like DeSo is designed to resist censorship. It uses advanced technology such as the Revolution Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism to make social media decentralized. This mechanism prevents centralized issues and stops censorship and malicious actions. DeSo also includes features like Sovereign Staking, Liquid Bonking, the Revolution Rule and the Burn-Maximizing Fee Algorithm to enhance security and ensure fair rewards. The aim is to create a free and open online space where transactions and information cannot be controlled. DeSo puts power in the hands of users, protects digital rights and counters government control on the internet. 

 


(Chainwire, 2023)

2 Digital Literacy and Awareness Programs

Teaching people about digital literacy is essential to fight against internet censorship. The old way of trying to control and protect digital media doesn't give enough power to young people or allow for a better future. Digital media is changing the world by connecting people and shaping their thoughts and societies. But let's take young people in the Middle East as an example, they are often expected to stick to old traditions and values that don't match their global perspectives. To help them, critical media literacy is needed which means understanding and respecting different cultures and involving young people in the conversation. (Abolish Censorship and Adopt Critical Media Literacy:  A Proactive Approach to Media and Youth in the Middle East, 2019)

 


(D’Addario, 2017)


3. International Cooperation

International cooperation is crucial to the fight against internet censorship. Government and social media companies must balance regulating harmful content with respecting freedom of expression. Rushed regulations can lead to censorship and limit human rights. We should focus on improving content moderation, making clear and fair restrictions, being transparent about how content is handled, providing ways to appeal decisions, involving civil society and holding companies accountable. The EU's Digital Services Act is an opportunity to set a good standard but still need to be careful about imposing too many rules on companies. (Moderating Online Content, 2021)

 

"

(Daniil et al., 2023)


The inspiration behind these solutions stems from the belief that an open and free Internet is essential for the progress of society. The internet has become vital for communication, innovation and knowledge sharing. They should be transparent and offer ways to address concerns. By working together and respecting human rights, a safe and open digital space is not far from everyone.

 

 

References

Abolish censorship and adopt critical media literacy: A proactive approach to media and youth in the Middle East. (2019).

Chainwire. (2023, April 5). Decentralized Social Media Blockchain Sparks Anti-Censorship Revolution as Restrict Act Looms. Finbold. https://finbold.com/decentralized-social-media-blockchain-sparks-anti-censorship-revolution-as-restrict-act-looms/

Moderating online content: Fighting harm or silencing dissent? (2021, July 23). OHCHR. https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2021/07/moderating-online-content-fighting-harm-or-silencing-dissent

Rochelle, T. (n.d.). Internet Censorship (Part 2): The Technology of Information Control | Townsend Center for the Humanities. Retrieved July 17, 2023, from https://townsendcenter.berkeley.edu/blog/internet-censorship-part-2-technology-information-control

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