Background Paper – The role of Governments in Protecting Internet Freedom

An open and free Internet is a key means by which individuals can exercise their right to freedom of opinion, expression, association and assembly. However, these freedoms are not absolute and may be at odds with the rights of others. In furthering Internet freedom, the main question for governments is thus how to foster the continued evolution of an Internet ecosystem that supports human expression and knowledge sharing, while protecting interests such as privacy and security.