Welcome to the 51st monthly round-up of developments impacting your local access networks and community-based initiatives.This month, we look at people shaping connectivity and communications technologies in support of other missing fundamental rights and much more.
Namibia has become the latest African country to introduce mandatory SIM card registration and data retention regulations that will have a far-reaching impact on online privacy and data protection in the country.
Australia adopted a range of technology-based responses to address the COVID-19 pandemic, but this approach resulted in “solutions” that ranged from the outright ineffective to the actively punitive.
Report
Financing mechanisms for locally owned internet infrastructureA growing number of community networks and other community connectivity providers are connecting those who have historically been unserved or underserved by traditional internet service providers. This report analyses the operating models and financing mechanisms that can support their success.
This joint stakeholder report focuses on key issues relating to human rights online in India, including internet shutdowns, digital exclusion, freedom of speech and expression online, online harassment and hate speech, privacy, surveillance and data protection
Statement
OEWG: APC emphasises key role played by civil society in cybersecurity capacity buildingAPC's statement at the OEWG dedicated stakeholder session also notes that it is encouraging to see the inclusion of language connected with narrowing the digital divide and a growing number of states calling for a gender-sensitive approach to international cybersecurity.
Submission
OEWG third substantive session: Key messages from the Association for Progressive CommunicationsIn this submission to the third substantive session of the UN Open-Ended Working Group on the security of, and in the use of, information and communications technologies (OEWG), APC addresses some of the recommended next steps outlined in the draft progress report.
Statement
OEWG: APC stresses importance of a human rights-based and gender-sensitive approach to cybersecurityThese APC priorities were reiterated in a statement delivered at the informal dialogue with the Chair of the UN Open-ended Working Group on developments in the field of information and telecommunications in the context of international security (OEWG) 2021-2025.
Joint statement
HRC 50: Civil society presents key takeaways from Human Rights CouncilAPC and other civil society organisations from around the world share reflections on the key outcomes of the 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council, as well as the missed opportunities to address key issues and situations.
Issue briefs
At the interstice of digital rights and environmental justice: Four issue briefs to inform fundingThese issue briefs highlight potential priority areas for funding that would bring the work of digital rights organisations and environmental justice actors closer together, based on the need for the two groups to work more collaboratively given the global environmental and climate emergency.
Joint statement
Hold the Line Coalition demands immediate decriminalisation of libel in the Philippines as Maria Ressa faces extended jail sentenceAPC and other members of the Hold the Line Coalition condemn the Philippine Court of Appeals decision to uphold the conviction of Nobel Laureate Maria Ressa and former Rappler researcher Rey Santos Jr. on trumped-up charges of cyber libel.
Our columnist reflects on how digitalisation has transformed, or at least changed the parameters, of our lives since the 1950s and where ‘digital transformation’ could head next.
A groundbreaking project showcases how Nigerian communities are using low-cost, free technologies to monitor air pollution and stand up to hold the responsible accountable.
This year’s edition of DataFest Africa brought to light a very significant conversation that needs critical attention: data use in the private sector and civil society organisations within Africa. Pollicy's JulietGrace Luwedde shares key learnings from the biggest data festival on the continent.
Columns
In this weekly column, longstanding associate of APC David Souter looks at different aspects of the digital society. Issues covered include internet governance and sustainable development, human rights and the environment, policy, practice and the use of ICTs.
How are APC members improving their communities' lives? In this section we're highlighting stories of impact and change by our members, supported by APC sub-granting.
Other APC sites
