Digital rights
As people turn to digital environments as a way of expressing views they may not feel safe expressing through other channels, more and more governments are using legislation, including privacy and national security laws, to gain control over digital spaces and infrastructure.
In addition, rights such as the right to privacy online have not yet been entrenched in the minds and actions of many citizens and yet citizens across the continent are using various technological services (email, social networking, banking etc.) every day, without adequate safeguards.
Digital rights news from our chapters
New Botswana Data Protection Act progressive step to a more secure digital environment
The Data Protection Act 18 of 2024, published on 29 October 2024 following presidential assent, marks a significant advancement in Botswana’s data privacy landscape. The new Act came into effect on 14 January 2025. The Act replaces the repealed Data Protection...
The future of expression in the age of intersectionality
By Jeremias Langa The existential shockwaves of 2024 will undoubtedly shape developments in 2025! This is so because the preceding year was deemed the year of democracy due to the global density of elections. This did not spare our region as we witnessed eight...
Southern Africa should intensify fight against online gender-based violence
Southern African governments, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders should develop robust and coordinated strategies to fight the menace of online gender-based violence (OGBV). A survey conducted by MISA Regional in collaboration with UNESCO to...
Content Production and Practices in the Digital Age: Threats, Risks, and Opportunities
Virtual Presentation by MISA Regional Director Dr Tabani Moyo at the Media, Human Rights, Citizenship and Development Forum 02 December 2024, Maputo, Mozambique. Chairperson, esteemed members of the diplomatic community, MISA Mozambique Governing Council, the media...
Collective efforts vital in fighting gender-based violence
The government, together with the country’s constitutional Independent Commissions Supporting Democracy and civil society organisations, should unite and intensify efforts to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls offline and online. Violence against...