Freedom of Expression and the Internet

This book sets out to answer key questions regarding the extent and limits of freedom of expression online. It seeks to shed light on the often obscure landscape of what we are allowed to say online and how our ideas, and the process of imparting and receiving information, are protected. It shows the large ambit of rights protected by freedom of expression – including freedom of the media and the right to access information via the Internet. It also highlights the importance of the standard-setting, monitoring and promotion activities of international and non-governmental organisations, with a chapter on relevant national practices that illustrates how different states deal with the challenge that the Internet has brought to ensuring freedom of expression for all. As the importance of the Internet in our daily lives grows, readers will find this book to be a valuable resource for understanding the rights and obligations of each actor on the Internet, including states, Internet companies and civil society.

Nine chapters cover: 'The challenges of ensuring freedom of expression on the Internet'; 'The content of freedom of expression online'; 'Restrictions on freedom of expression online'; 'Standard-setting by the Council of Europe and non-state actors'; 'Specific issues'; 'Relevant practice on the national level'; 'European monitoring mechanisms'; 'Promotion of freedom of expression online'; 'Conclusions'.

Council of Europe (2014). Also available in French.