UN, OSCE, OAS and ACHPR Joint Declaration on Freedom of Expression on the Internet

The Declaration outlines that the freedom of expression applies to the Internet, as it does to all means of communication. It stresses that restrictions on freedom of expression on the Internet are only acceptable if they comply with established international standards, including that they are provided for by law, and that they are necessary to protect an interest which is recognised under international law. The declaration addresses issues such as content blocking and filtering, network neutrality and access to the Internet which is necessary to promote respect for other rights, such as the rights to education, health care and work, the right to assembly and association, and the right to free elections.