The computer scientist who created the World Wide Web believes access to the internet should be recognized as a human right.
Tim Berners-Lee promoted the concepts of individual rights to privacy and freedom of expression at a conference. The remarks preceded the release of World Wide Web Foundation’s report on the internet’s global impact.
According to Mashable, the report disclosed 84% of countries possess weak or nonexistent laws preventing mass online surveillance. Nearly 40% of surveyed countries censor online content or block access to the internet in ways the report indentifies as a “moderate or extreme degree.”
“It’s time to recognize the Internet as a basic human right,” Berners-Lee claimed. “That means guaranteeing affordable access for all, ensuring Internet packets are delivered without commercial or political discrimination, and protecting the privacy and freedom of Web users regardless of where they live.”
The appropriate method for delivering internet access to the 4.4 billion people without it remains a matter of dispute. While some view government regulation as the best solution, others suggest the expansion of private industry.
