Issues to be addressed include the criminalisation of online expression, blocking and manipulating of internet content, invasion of privacy and data protection, unlawful surveillance and limitations on internet access. The panel will also focus on the specific impacts on freedom of expression, freedom of association and women’s human rights.

Frank La Rue, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, will present his annual report which focuses primarily on the internet. The report outlines the growing trend of restricting freedom of expression and association online, and the importance of reaffirming these rights and freedoms in the online sphere.