RightsCon Toronto 2018

This panel discussion will address the proliferation of instances where states have blocked or partially restricted access to the internet, and civil society strategies to challenge internet shutdowns using litigation before domestic and regional courts.

In 2017 the number of internet shutdowns imposed across a number of jurisdictions has increased. Their impact can be measured in terms of economic loss to the states involved, as well the curtailment of freedom of expression, access to information and the right to assembly. Furthermore, shutdowns have an indirect effect on free and fair elections, and the exercise of socio-economic rights including the rights to healthcare and education.

Drawing on PIN's and MLDI’s knowledge of and involvement in recent and on-going litigation concerning internet shutdowns, the proposed session will reflect on these legal challenges to shutdowns. It will look at the growing internet rights jurisprudence, and consider strategies for utilising this jurisprudence as part of a range of instruments available to challenge shutdowns at local, regional, and international level.