The Freedom Online Coalition expresses concern that authoritarian governments are using privacy and security considerations as a pretext to force Internet companies and service providers to store user data on servers physically located within their domestic borders. Such forced data localization measures can be used to stifle freedom of speech, restrict user Internet access, and surveil citizens in a manner inconsistent with democratic principles and States’ international human rights obligations. These measures can create a climate of fear and self-censorship, especially when imposed in countries that routinely silence criticism and that improperly access the sensitive and confidential information of investigative journalists, members of minority groups, civil society activists, and perceived political opponents.
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