Press Release
☷United States and European Union Release Joint Guidance for Online Platforms on Protecting Human Rights Defenders Online United States Department of State
U.S. Department of State ( By Press Release office)
Mar 13,2024
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Human rights defenders , as defined by the United Nations , play a vital role in protecting human rights both online and offline . They can include people from various backgrounds such as NGOs , trade unions , journalists , lawyers , activists , and representatives of marginalized groups . Recognizing the importance of their work and ensuring their safety is a priority for both the US and EU , and crucial for advancing human rights globally . We have developed this guidance in response to the increasing online threats faced by human rights defenders worldwide . These defenders are often targeted online due to their efforts to protect human rights . They face various risks online , including cyberattacks , censorship , internet shutdowns , surveillance , harassment , disinformation , and doxxing . Online attacks can also lead to physical violations and abuses , such as violence , disappearances , and unlawful detention . Women defenders , LGBTQ+ defenders , and those from marginalized groups face a disproportionate impact from these threats . The US and EU are happy to announce that they have released joint guidance for online platforms . This guidance provides 10 practical steps that platforms can take worldwide to prevent , reduce , and address attacks against human rights defenders online . It is part of our ongoing efforts to address the misuse of technology and support the protection of human rights defenders online , as part of the US - EU Trade and Technology Council Working Group 6 . Online platforms have the ability to use their resources and influence to promote respect for human rights and protect those who defend these rights at great personal risk . These recommendations were developed through consultations with various stakeholders , including CSOs , HRDs , UN experts , technology companies , safety experts , and mental health professionals , organized by the United States and the European Union from January 2023 to February 2024 . The United States and the European Union plan to take further actions to support HRDs worldwide and will work with all relevant stakeholders to promote and implement these recommendations . These recommendations align with the principles of the Declaration of the Future of the Internet and U . S . and EU legislation and policies to protect human rights online , such as the EU Digital Services Act . Please note that these recommendations do not override any requirements of U . S . or EU law .
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