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
Over-regulation of the internet threat to digital rights
One of the reasons that contributed to the increased levels of Internet penetration in Africa and in Zimbabwe was that the internet space was perceived as a ‘free and unregulated space’ for freedom of expression and access to information. It was also viewed as a...
Zambia’s newly enacted cybercrime law challenged in court
Zambian civil society organisations have approached the High Court in Lusaka accusing the government of violating the Constitution through the enactment of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act. Chapter One Foundation, Bloggers of Zambia, Gears Initiative, People’s...
Uptake in ICTs should be backed by data protection framework
On 24 February 2021 President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the National Data Centre in Harare. The launch is a critical step towards the fulfilment of some of the objectives under the National Development Strategy. This entails the development of e-government...
Protecting privacy in the digital age, is Zimbabwe ready?
The 28th of January is celebrated globally as a day that raises awareness on and promotes privacy and data protection best practices. Today marks 40 years since the signing of Convention 108, a binding international instrument which protects individuals against abuses...
Internet shutdowns gross violation of human rights more so during elections
MISA Zimbabwe remains in solidarity with the rest of the region and more specifically the citizens of Uganda in advocating against internet shutdowns. On 13 January 2021 the Uganda Commission acting in terms of Sections 5(1) and 56 of the Uganda Communications Act of...