Understanding key issues in data protection framework implementation in Africa
2024-01-29 13:00 - 15:30 (Africa/Nairobi) | Baraza Media Lab
Africa continues to rise as a hub for digitization, and as it does, laws and policy frameworks follow. Data protection laws are part of the ever-changing legislative scene in Africa; and as the Malabo convention comes into force, we are uniquely positioned to shape what data protection will look like for years to come. How do we ensure we get the best deal out of this?

Speakers:

Dr. Mugambi Laibuta – Privacy and Data Protection Consultant

Grace Mutung’u – Independent Researcher

Victor Kapiyo – Researcher and Trustee, KICTANet

Megan Kathure – Independent Researcher

Cynthia Chepkemoi – Data protection officer – Kenya Women Microfinance Bank

Bridget Andere – Senior Policy Analyst – Access Now (Moderator)

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The 3rd Summit for Democracy (S4D) South Korea 2024
2024-03-18 08:00 - 2024-03-20 18:00 (Asia/Seoul)
Since its inception in 2021, the Summit for Democracy has provided a forum for the U.S. government and others to showcase their foreign policy initiatives in the face of rising authoritarianism and “organize collective action to address emerging challenges to democracy.” The 3rd Summit for Democracy will be hosted by the Government of the Republic of Korea, under the overarching theme of “Democracy for Future Generations.”

The summit will be hosted from March 18-20, 2024, with the following agenda:

Day 1: Ministerial-level meeting and expert roundtable

Day 2: Discussions and workshops led by domestic and foreign civil society

Day 3: Virtual summit

Below are the events Access Now will be co-organizing or participating in at the 3rd Summit for Democracy.

Access Now does not participate in these summits uncritically. All governments must do more to protect and promote human rights and democratic processes, online and offline. As we wrote during last year’s summit, “civil society is under attack, under pressure, and underfunded” and governments must “invest in and champion civil society, including digital civil society, as a voice that speaks truth to power.” We look forward to opening space at this summit for honest, critical discussions and directing resources toward efforts led by people and communities at risk.

Day 1, March 18, 2024

Access Now will be participating in the U.S. Government’s high-level side event, “Galvanizing Multistakeholder Action to Combat the Misuse of Commercial Spyware,” from 5:45 pm to 6:45pm KST at the Hotel Shilla in Seoul, Republic of Korea, to mark one-year of release of the Joint statement on efforts to counter the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware.

Day 2, March 19, 2024

Ensuring AI governance and democratic governance go hand-in-hand

11:30 am -12:30 pm KST (Session no. 47) | Room 301

Organizer: Access Now, Microsoft, and National Information Society Agency (NIA) of Republic of Korea

Speakers:

YUN Chang-Hee(Ph.D.), Director of the AI Policy Research Team, AI Policy Division, National Information Society Agency.

Amy Larsen, Director, Microsoft’s Democracy Forward team

Raman Jit Singh Chima, Asia Policy Policy Director and Senior International Counsel, Access Now

The impact of online disinformation and actions to strengthen information integrity

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm KST | Room 315

Organizer: Global Democracy Coalition

Speakers:

Elaine Ford, Founding Director, Democracia Digital

Danielle Piatkiewicz, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Alliance of Democracies Foundation

Peter Micek, General Counsel, Access Now

Access for democracy: Preventing internet shutdowns and strengthening democracy

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm KST (Session no. 39) | Room 304

Organizer: Access Now and Internews

Speakers:

Kanbar Hossein-Bor, Deputy High Commissioner for the U.K., British High Commission in Bangladesh

Carly Ramsey, Director, Head of Asia Pacific, Japan and China Public Policy, Cloudflare

Artur Papyan, Director, Media Diversity Initiative – Armenia

Miraj Chowdhury, Managing Director, Digitally Right – Bangladesh

Moderated by Brittany Piovesan, Chief of Party – Greater Internet Freedom, Internews

You can also catch our RightsCon booth on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm local time, to learn more about RightsCon South Korea (February 2025)! Speak to our team to discover how you can engage at the world’s leading summit on human rights in the digital age.

REGISTER

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Digital Public Infrastructure: A Tool for Gender Equality?
2024-03-21 14:00 - 15:30 UTC | https://accessnow.org/dpi-a-tool-for-gender-equality
As more public services and information sources move online, women and girls, in all of their diversity, continue to face barriers to access to digital public infrastructure and repositories of knowledge and memory. This amplifies existing inequities by hindering their meaningful participation in public life and contributes to their further marginalization.

Digital commons, such as Wikimedia projects, are essential to provide wide access to accurate information, which in turn is fundamental for both human rights, including access to information (a component of the right to freedom of opinion and expression), as well as sustainable development by reaching the Sustainable Development Goals that support digital public goods that can be used by all.

This event aims to discuss the critical need for a robust digital public infrastructure that supports and safeguards global public goods for everyone in order to fulfill the promise of the internet. Such an information ecosystem requires not only investment in technical infrastructure to ensure easy and equitable access to public information, but also support for fields that produce and organize knowledge like journalism and academia. This support extends to legal structures and open and free licensing of many different types of information.

Speakers:

Dr. Manavpreet Kaur, Co-Founder, Punjabi Wikimedians

Marianne Diaz Hernandez, #WhyID Campaigner at Access Now

Kat Townsend, Expert Advisor, World Wide Web Foundation

Sandra Aceng, Executive Director, Women of Uganda Network

Moderator: Costanza Sciubba Caniglia, Anti-Disinformation Strategy Lead at Wikimedia Foundation

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Lanzamiento del Manual del Pequeñx Vigiladx
2024-03-25 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires)
Los sistemas de vigilancia masiva con capacidades de recolección remota de datos biométricos, pueden capturarlos en el subte o metro, estaciones de bus, calles públicas muchos otros lugares. Para que funcionen, tienen que estar nutridos de una o varias bases de otros datos biométricos. Estos sistemas son propensos a cometer errores de identificación, sobre todo en personas de tez oscura, mujeres y personas adultas mayores.

Cuando las autoridades detienen a una persona porque uno de estos sistemas la confundió con un individuo que tiene récord criminal en la base de datos biométricos que poseen, se desencadenan una serie de eventos que ponen en riesgo su integridad. Estos casos se conocen como falsos positivos.

En este evento presentaremos el Manual del Pequeñx Vigiladx, una herramienta diseñada para ofrecer recomendaciones específicas para América Latina, con el objetivo de ayudar a las personas afectadas por falsos positivos y a sus seres queridos a navegar por el complejo sistema judicial en caso de enfrentar esta situación.

¡No te pierdas el lanzamiento! Nos acompañan:

Angela Alarcón, Campaigner, Latin America & the Caribbean

María del Carmen Verdú, referente de CORREPI

Patricia Díaz Charquero, Coordinadora de Datysoc

Modera: Yamlek Mojica, Communications and Engagement Officer for Latin America & the Caribbean

Si te lo perdiste, acá lo puedes ver

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Vigilancia y persecución: la represión de los DDHH en América Latina
2024-05-02 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Santiago) | Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, Santiago, Chile, Av. Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 227, 8320275 Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
Bar El Bajo, Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, Building B, Floor – 1

[English below]

El evento se constituirá de dos paneles:

Panel I: Defender la libertad de prensa: Alternativas políticas para la protección de periodistas contra el spyware en América Latina4:00 – 5:15pm

La significativa evidencia de la sociedad civil ha demostrado que gobiernos alrededor del mundo han utilizado implacablemente tecnología de vigilancia selectiva contra periodistas. Tanto en México, como en El Salvador y República Dominicana, periodistas que realizan investigaciones e informes independientes han sido blanco de software espía invasivo.Las crecientes tendencias autoritarias en América Latina hacen que la falta de una posición política clara sobre el uso de tecnología de vigilancia sea particularmente preocupante, sobre todo cuando la libertad de expresión y los espacios cívicos continúan reduciéndose, lo que en última instancia plantea la pregunta: ¿Qué pueden hacer los gobiernos de América Latina para salvaguardar los derechos humanos y la libertad de prensa, y frenar el abuso de spyware?

Únate a Access Now, Derechos Digitales y gobiernos de la región en un panel orientado a la acción para resolver el problema del software espía.

Participan:

Mariana Belloso, periodista independiente (video introductorio)

Sergio Arauz, periodista y subjefe de redacción en el medio El Faro

Nicolás Sepulveda, periodista investigador en el Centro de Investigación Periodística de Chile (CIPER)

Ángela Alarcón, Coordinadora de campañas para América latina y el Caribe en Access Now

Michel Souza, Director de Políticas Públicas en Derechos Digitales.

Daniel Álvarez, Coordinador Nacional de Ciberseguridad del Gobierno de Chile

Marina Pita, Coordinadora General de Libertad de Expresión y Combate a la Desinformación en la Secretaría de Políticas Digitales del Gobierno de Brasil

Modera: Yamlek Mojica, oficial de comunicaciones para América latina y el Caribe en Access Now

Panel II: Cibercrimen, persecución penal y periodismo17:30 – 18:30

Ola Bini, defensor de derechos humanos y desarrollador de software, fue condenado el mes pasado en Ecuador por un presunto intento de acceso no autorizado a un sistema de telecomunicaciones. El fallo se produjo después de cinco años de un caso plagado de irregularidades, demoras, presiones políticas, pruebas endebles y violaciones del debido proceso, a pesar de la preocupación generalizada de activistas de derechos civiles, profesionales de la tecnología y expertos legales.

Esta sesión tiene como objetivo discutir el papel del periodismo en un caso que giró en torno a muchos temas más allá del cibercrimen, junto con Diego Cazar -autor de “Colateral”, un libro que cuenta la historia de Bini- así como activistas de derechos humanos.

Participan:

Ola Bini, experto en seguridad informática y fundador del Centro de Autonomía Digital (video introductorio)

Diego Cazar, autor del libro “Colateral” sobre la historia de Ola Bini, y director del medio ecuatoriano La Barra Espaciadora

Ángela Alarcón, Coordinadora de campañas para América latina y el Caribe en Access Now

Modera: Catalina Balla, Directora de Comunicaciones en Derechos Digitales.

Se servirá refrigerio.

_________________________________

The event will constitute two panels:

Panel I: Safeguard Press Freedom: Political avenues for the protection of journalists against spyware in LAC4:00 – 5:15pm

Growing evidence from civil society has shown that governments across the world have relentlessly used targeted surveillance technology against journalists. From Mexico, to El Salvador to the Dominican Republic, journalists engaging in independent reporting and investigations have been the targets of invasive spyware.The growing authoritarian trends in LATAM make the lack of a clear political position on the use of surveillance tech particularly worrying, as freedom of expression and civic spaces continue to shrink, ultimately begging the question: What can the governments in LATAM do to safeguard human rights and press freedom, and curb the abuse of invasive spyware?

Join Access Now, Derechos Digitales and governments from the region on an action-oriented panel to solve the problem of spyware.

Speakers:

Mariana Belloso, independent journalist (intro video)

Sergio Arauz, journalist and deputy editor-in-chief at El Faro

Nicolás Sepulveda, investigative journalist at Centro de Investigación Periodística de Chile (CIPER)

Ángela Alarcón, LAC campaigner at Access Now

Michel Souza, public policy director at Derechos Digitales

Daniel Álvarez, National Coordinator of Cybersecurity, Government of Chile

Marina Pita, General Coordinator of Freedom of Expression Policies and Fighting Disinformation, at the Digital Policies Secretariat in Brazil

Moderator: Yamlek Mojica, LAC Communications and Engagement officer at Access Now.

Panel II: Cybercrime, criminal prosecution and journalism5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Ola Bini, a human rights defender and software developer, was convicted last month in Ecuador, for an alleged attempt of unauthorized access of a telecommunications system. The ruling came after 5 years of a case plagued by irregularities, delays, political pressure, flimsy evidence, and due process violations, despite widespread concern from civil rights activists, technology professionals, and legal experts.

This session aims to discuss the role of journalism in a case that revolved around many topics beyond cybercrime, together with Diego Cazar -author of “Colateral”, a book telling Bini’s story- as well as human rights activists.

Speakers:

Ola Bini, digital security expert and founder of Digital Autonomy Center (Centro de Autonomía Digital) (intro video)

Diego Cazar, author of the book “Collateral” on the story of Ola Bini, and director of the Ecuadorian media La Barra Espaciadora

Ángela Alarcón, LAC campaigner at Access Now

Moderator: Catalina Balla, Communications Director at Derechos Digitales.

Drinks and Refreshments will be served.

Co-sponsors:

REGISTER FOR WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY

World Press Freedom Day: Digital threats to free expression & climate discourse in Latin America and beyond
2024-05-04 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Argentina/Buenos_Aires)
Santiago, Chile — Together with Global Witness and IPANDETEC, we’re hosting a side event at the UNESCO 2024 World Press Freedom Day Conference entitled, “The Online Dangers to Freedom of Expression and Climate Communication in Latin America and Beyond.”

Central America stands out as one of the most hostile regions for the practice of journalism in the Americas. In this group of countries, various organizations report experiences ranging from judicial harassment to imprisonment and even murder. But increasingly attacks also take place in the digital environment, including defamation, doxxing, and censorship. These tactics deprive journalists of the ability to fully exercise their right to freedom of expression in a safe manner.

At a wider level, online hate, disinformation, and other digital threats present growing obstacles to reporting and communicating on the climate crisis. Journalists, climate scientists, and environmental defenders have long been instrumental to public understanding of our changing climate, documenting its shifts, sounding the alarm on its effects, and clarifying its remedies. However, online harassment and abuse can have serious impacts on their well-being and imperil their work.

This session looks at the digital threats to freedom of expression in Latin America and the intrinsic links to environmental and climate communication globally. It brings together experts, journalists, and human rights defenders to explore the challenges of online violence and related threats to democracy and climate action. Speakers will also share practices to promote resilient journalism and information ecosystems in the digital age.

SPEAKERS:

Paolo Nigro Herrero, Digital Security Helpline Shift Manager, Access Now

Yamlek Mojica, LAC Communications and Engagement Officer, Access Now

Disha Ravi, Climate justice activist, Fridays for the Future India

Henry Peck, Campaigner on Digital Threats, Global Witness

Lia Hérnandez, Board of Directors, IPANDETEC

Jenny Galindo, Associated Researcher, IPANDETEC

WHERE:

Centro Cultural Gabriela MistralRoom 5 (C1)Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 227, 8320275 Santiago, Región Metropolitana Chile

Hosted by:

REGISTER FOR WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY

g0v Summit 2024
2024-05-04 09:00 - 2024-05-05 17:00 (Asia/Seoul)
g0v (gov-zero) is a grassroots community of software developers, designers, activists, educators, writers, and citizens, focused on improving civil society through technology and collaboration. Since its inception in 2014, the g0v Summit has facilitated cross-sector exchanges among open-source communities, NGOs, governments, academics, and netizens alike.

The 2024 summit will focus on the following themes:

“Nerd politics” vs. digital governance;

Data, AI, and community collaboration;

Grassroots, open, polycentric, and communal responses to political and technological authoritarianism;

Digital infrastructure grounded in empathy, inclusiveness, and plurality; and

Convergence of technology and social issues.

Here’s where you can find Access Now on day 1 of g0v Summit 2024.

Highlight

Defending digital rights in the age of digital authoritarianism

12:30 pm — 2:00 pm Taipei time | International Conference Hall

In today’s interconnected world, digital rights are fundamental for protecting personal privacy, free expression, and access to information. As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats intent on undermining these rights. Hosted by Access Now, this three-part discussion will focus on three examples of digital authoritarianism: the weaponization of internet shutdowns, spyware and the abuse of surveillance technologies, and threats against people’s data rights.

This Highlight session features Access Now’s Raman Jit Singh Chima, Asia Pacific Policy Director and Global Cybersecurity Lead; Michael De Dora, U.S. Policy and Advocacy Manager; Namrata Maheshwari, Senior Policy Counsel and Encryption Policy Lead; and Golda Benjamin, Asia Pacific Campaigner. It will be moderated by Chihhao Yu, Co-director at IORG.

Community Track

Digital resilience: What to do if the internet Is out?

2:10 pm — 3:40 pm Taipei time | International Conference Hall

Since the 2021 coup in Myanmar, telecom companies have aligned with the military junta, making it easy for the military to order shutdowns at any time. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s largest telecoms provider Chunghwa claims that undersea cables have been cut 27 times in the past five years; a disproportionate rate compared with other parts of the world. The discussion will focus on learnings from both regions that can guide global stakeholders in strengthening digital resilience and safeguarding human rights.

This Community Track session features Wen Lii, Director of International Affairs, Democratic Progressive Party; Fu Shiang Ching, Research Associate at the Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica; and Golda Benjamin, Asia Pacific Campaigner at Access Now.

We will also be supporting our partners in the “East Asian civic tech communities amid global democratic backslide” keynote panel (R0, 10:10-10:40 am Taipei time) where you can chat with our experts about defending digital rights, in Asia Pacific and beyond.

REGISTER

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DRAPAC and APrIGF 2024
2024-08-18 11:00 - 2024-08-22 17:30 (Asia/Taipei)
The Digital Rights Asia Pacific Conference (DRAPAC) 2024

August 18 – August 19

The Digital Rights Asia Pacific Conference (DRAPAC) 2024 is a pivotal gathering of digital rights advocates, policymakers, and tech experts dedicated to discussing and addressing pressing digital rights issues in the Asia Pacific region.

Below are some of the events Access Now will be joining at the Digital Rights Asia Pacific Conference:

Day 2, August 19

Who’s afraid of government super-apps? Digitalization’s impact on privacy and surveillance risks

10:30 am – 11:30 pm Taipei Time | Room 203, NTUH International Convention Centre

Digitalization and e-governance projects are rapidly gaining momentum in Asia, with examples like the Philippines’s eGov PH app and Taiwan’s pandemic management efforts. However, these projects raise important concerns about privacy and surveillance. Hosted by Access Now, this session will bring together regional stakeholders to discuss emerging and potential threats of such projects. Raman Jit Singh Chima, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Policy Director, will lead the discussion.

How does the government use our personal data? Challenges in FOI, litigation and legislation

10:30 am – 11:30 am Taipei Time | Theatrette 301, NTUH International Convention Centre

As data sharing ramps up between government bodies and third parties, the question becomes: how can people reclaim control of their data? Featuring Poren Chiang, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Extern, this session will explore civil society’s efforts to fight for digital rights against the backdrop of long-term data exploitation and breaches, spotlighting case studies from Taiwan, including the authorized secondary use of the National Health Insurance Database and the widespread home registration data breach impacting nearly the entire population in the country.

The Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum (APrIGF) 2024

August 21 – August 23

The Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum (APrIGF) 2024 serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders across the region to engage in discussions on internet governance issues. This forum brings together representatives from government, private sector, civil society, and academia to address challenges and opportunities in the digital landscape.

Below are some of the events Access Now will be joining during the Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum:

Day 0, August 20

For a better digital democracy: defend and strengthen digital rights with public-private partnership

1:30 pm – 5:30 pm Taipei Time | 2F, NPO HUB Taipei

Ahead of APrIGF 2024, Access Now and Wikimedia Taiwan will co-host a side event to explore AI, digital privacy, and the impact of civic groups on digital democracy, with the following agenda:

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Taipei Time: AI’s human right crisis and the role of civic sector

The discussion will be moderated by Namrata Maheshwari, Access Now’s Senior Policy Counsel and Encryption Policy Lead. Panelists joining the conversation include Isabel Hou, AI Academy Taiwan’s Secretary General; Peter Micek, Access Now’s Legal and UN Policy Director; and Isedua Oribhabor, Access Now’s Business and Human Rights Manager.

3:15 pm – 4:15 pm Taipei Time: Public-private partnership and digital privacy protection

This session will be moderated by Raman Jit Singh Chima, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Policy Director. Panelists include Elizabeth Donkervoort, ABA ROLI’s East Asia Program Director; Faydah Dumarpa, the Commissioner for Emerging Technologies at the Philippines Commission on Human Rights; and Chia-Shuo Tang, Open Culture Foundation Taiwan’s Research Manager.

4:30 pm – 5:30 pm Taipei Time: How could civic groups create policy impact in digital democracy?

This session will be moderated by Wei-Chen Lim, Open Culture Foundation Taiwan’s Executive Secretary. Panelists include Don Le, Article 19’s coordinator; Shruti Narayan, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Policy Counsel; Faiz Naeem, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Program Associate, along with participants from the local internet governance community and members of Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline.

To attend this side event, please RSVP. It will be held in Mandarin and English with interpretation services available for both languages.

UPDATE: Reservations for this event are now closed!

Day 2, August 22

A multistakeholder approach to safeguarding information integrity through advancing internet governance in Asia and the Pacific

10:10 am – 11:10 am Taipei Time | 402CD, NTUH International Convention Centre

This session will tackle internet governance in the Asia Pacific region, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for safeguarding online information amid the 2024 elections and AI advancements. It will highlight the importance of a multistakeholder approach — engaging governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia — to drive effective governance. The session features Raman Jit Singh Chima, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Policy Director.

Is Asia Pacific ready for AI? Balancing innovation, ethical governance, and marginalized needs

11:30 am – 12:30 pm Taipei Time | 402CD, NTUH International Convention Centre

The rapid growth and broad adoption of AI technologies across the Asia Pacific region raises ethical concerns due to its diverse cultural, legal, and socioeconomic landscape. As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, effective governance is crucial to balance innovation with ethics. Featuring Poren Chiang, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Extern, this session will explore AI governance in the region, using frameworks focused on human rights, accountability, and transparency to uncover key lessons and address existing gaps.

Navigating the complex terrain of internet intermediaries liability and online frauds

2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Taipei Time | Room 401, NTUH International Convention Centre

This panel will explore how recent regulatory trends might incentivize platforms to address online harms, while also weighing the potential human rights violations that could arise from compulsory regulatory measures like fines or network access restrictions. Featuring Raman Jit Singh Chima, Access Now’s Asia Pacific Policy Director, the discussion will focus on online fraud as a key example of harmful content that platforms need to manage.

REGISTER FOR DRAPAC

REGISTER FOR APrIGF

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United Nations General Assembly 79th Session (UNGA79)
2024-09-10 00:00 - 2024-09-30 23:59 (America/New_York) | United Nations Headquarters
Venue: United Nations Headquarters & surrounding New York City area, New York, USA (and virtual)

The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) will start on Tuesday 10 September 2024. The first day of the high-level General Debate will be Tuesday 24 September 2024 through to Monday 30 September 2024.

This year, the highly anticipated Summit of the Future will be held during UNGA79 with Summit of the Future Action Days on Friday 20 September and Saturday 21 September, followed by an official Heads of State and Government summit on Sunday 22 September and Monday 23 September, 2024. The Summit aims to address “the critical challenges and gaps in global governance exposed by recent global shocks.” The Summit will adopt three agreements: a Pact for the Future, Global Digital Compact, and Declaration on Future Generations. Access Now has been actively following the Global Digital Compact process. For more information view our FAQ on the Global Digital Compact.

Below are some of the public events Access Now will be joining at UNGA79 2024. Follow the link below to the official United Nations website for the registration process, and to confirm time, date and locations of sessions, which may change. High-level debates will be livestreamed on UN Web TV.

Registration details

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Thursday 19 September

Global Digital Compact Civil Society Strategic Discussion Space

Thursday 19 September, 2024 (08:00 – 12:00 EDT), Scandinavian House

In preparation for the finalization of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) this event aims to provide space for civil society organizations to critically discuss the final text and engage in strategic discussion around the implementation and follow-up of the GDC. This is an opportunity to align agendas on cross-cutting progressive issues and coordinate efforts across regions and themes.

The side event is coordinated by the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), IT for Change, Equality Now, Alliance for Universal Digital Rights (AUDRi), Women at the Table/ <A+> Alliance for Inclusive Algorithms, Pollicy, Derechos Digitales, Women Rights Online, UN Women and UNFPA.

The side event will be held in English.

Register here to attend in person

Saturday 21 September

A Digital Future For All

Saturday 21 September, 2024 (10:30-17:00 EDT), United Nations Headquarters ECOSOC Chamber

This full day session is co-convened by the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology (OSET), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and “will bring forward-looking commitments from all stakeholders to harness innovation, science and data in a more inclusive, safe and sustainable manner” as part of the digital track of the Summit of the Future.

The Power of the Commons: Digital Public Goods for a More Secure, Inclusive, and Resilient World

Saturday 21 September, 2024 (11:15-12:30 EDT), United Nations Headquarters Conference Room 2

The Pact for the Future and Global Digital Compact offer an important opportunity to ensure that Digital Public Goods (DPGs) and Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) are able to shape our digital world for the public good. This event will spotlight success stories and explore how DPGs and DPIs can ensure that people around the world have a say in how technology is developed and governed, bridge digital divides, empower communities, and advance Sustainable Development Goals. The event will also tackle governance challenges and map a path toward a globally inclusive digital future.

This side event is co-sponsored by the UN Member State Delegations of Mexico, Poland, and Germany, as well as the organizations Access Now (featuring Marianne Díaz Hernández as speaker), TUM Think Tank, Network of Centers, Wikimedia Deutschland, Wikimedia Czech Republic, and Wikimedia Europe.

The Critical Role of Human Rights in Realizing the Pact for the Future

Saturday 21 September, 2024 (13:00-14:15 EDT), United Nations Headquarters Conference Room 2

This side event will discuss the value of human rights in achieving sustainable development, peace, and security, and in ensuring the effective enjoyment of all human rights by all. It will showcase concrete applications of human rights as a bridge-builder between the people and the institutions of the State in a range of areas, including addressing inequalities, tackling discrimination, and confronting new and emerging challenges.

This side event is co-organized by the UN Human Rights Office, Costa Rica, South Africa, the European Union, Action for Sustainable Development, and CIVICUS. Further information, including the Concept Note of the event, will be shared in due course and posted on the OHCHR website.

Monday 23 September

War, famine, and satellites: Connecting the dots of the humanitarian impact of shutdowns in Sudan

Monday 23 September, 2024 (10:00-11:00 EDT), Access Now Office (and virtual)

A preventable, human-caused famine is unfolding in Sudan, and internet shutdowns are playing a direct role. With peace negotiations failing, humanitarian access efforts center on getting food into territories controlled by warring parties. With this event, we aim to supplement those crucial negotiations by exploring telecommunications and the role of digital connectivity in advancing peace and humanitarian access.

This expert discussion session alongside UNGA 79 would highlight the work of GISA, presenting findings from their briefing “Digital Lifelines: How Internet Connectivity Enables Vital Aid in Sudan.” The report is the result of the Sudan Crisis Response project, launched to enhance communication resilience for local humanitarian actors, journalists, and human rights defenders, and also tested a variety of connectivity solutions including low earth orbit satellites (LEOs).

Watch here

Wednesday 25 September

Foreign Policy Tech Forum: Accelerating Global Connectivity and Progress Toward the SDGs

Wednesday 25 September, 2024 (08:30 – 10:30 EDT), Rockefeller Plaza and Virtual

As emerging technologies reshape global dynamics, policymakers are tasked with developing robust frameworks that can keep pace, ensuring that innovation and technology advance the public good. They, along with industry, finance, development, and civil society, must navigate the complexities of supporting equitable growth, managing evolving threats, and addressing critical issues such as AI ethics, digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, biosecurity, and more.

This year’s forum will explore how advanced technologies can foster greater connectivity and prosperity, emphasizing the crucial role of science, biotech, technology, and innovation (STI) within the UN framework. Through a series of panel discussions and one-on-one conversations, the FP Tech Forum @ UNGA79 will take a candid look at the state of technology, increasing global fragmentation, and the steps necessary to mitigate risks and leverage technology for material progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

REGISTER HERE

War, famine, and satellites: Connecting the dots of the humanitarian impact of shutdowns in Sudan
2024-09-23 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
Venue: Access Now office – 54 W. 21st Street, Suite 404, New York 10010. Nearest subway: F Train stops at 23rd and 6th Avenue (and virtual on YouTube)

Speakers:

Mosaab Baba, Editor, Ayin

Shayna Lewis, Senior Advisor and Sudan Specialist, PAEMA

Moneim Adam, Program Director, Sudan Human Rights Hub (SHRH)

Kholood Khair, Founding Director, Confluence Advisory

Remote participants:

Khattab Hamad, Digital rights activist

Rawh Nasir, Researcher

Jawhara Kanu, Political economy analyst

Moderator:

Aymen Zaghdoudi, MENA Senior Policy Counsel, Access Now

Interventions from the floor:

Tom Rhodes, Managing Editor, Ayin

Kassem Mnejja, MENA Campaigner, Access Now

Peter Micek, General Counsel and UN Policy Manager, Access Now

Trevor Snapp, Executive Director, Gisa Group

Internet shutdowns are playing a direct role in the preventable, human-caused famine in Sudan, where faltering peace negotiations and humanitarian efforts struggle to bring some relief to populations living in areas disputed by warring parties. With this event, we aim to supplement those crucial negotiations by exploring telecommunications and the role of digital connectivity in advancing peace and humanitarian access.

This discussion alongside UNGA 79 is led by experts from leading platforms, research, and advocacy organizations at the forefront of digital human rights, access to knowledge, and humanitarian response online in Sudan and beyond, including those looking at the role of low-earth orbit satellites (LEO) internet providers like Starlink.

GISA group will present findings from their briefing Digital Lifelines: How Internet Connectivity Enables Vital Aid in Sudan. The report is the result of the Sudan Crisis Response project, launched to enhance communication resilience for local humanitarian actors, journalists, and human rights defenders, and also tested a variety of connectivity solutions, including LEOs.

Access Now will present the #KeepItOn coalition’s most recent report, Shrinking democracy, growing violence: internet shutdowns in 2023, using data on shutdowns in Sudan collected by the coalition, together with case studies and testimonies shared by people in Sudan to demonstrate the humanitarian impact of shutdowns.

Inviting participants to join the discussion live, the panel of experts will focus on the effects of shutdowns on vulnerable communities in conflict areas, how civil society, communities, and people are fighting back, and what the international community must do to change this situation, covering:

GISA findings from the Sudan Crisis Response project

#KeepItOn report highlights and campaign actions against internet shutdowns in Sudan

Framing the humanitarian impact of shutdowns, and challenges to accountability within the existing legal and regulatory frameworks

Digital security tips and tools

Furthermore, the experts will propose a set of concrete and actionable recommendations for stakeholders to address the ongoing situation.

Event goals:

We will offer actionable opportunities for participants, including:

to strengthen their digital security and data privacy practices, while engaging more safely in online platforms and services

to support locally-led responses to the challenges posed by shutdowns in conflict

to engage in ongoing workstreams at the United Nations, including the further promotion of digital access and connectivity related issues in UNGA resolutions, and the improvement of UNSC digital language overall

to join the fight against internet shutdowns in the #KeepItOn movement and beyond

Watch the event discussion

Access Now at the 11th edition of CIPESA’s FIFAfrica
2024-09-25 09:00 - 2024-09-27 18:00 (Africa/Dakar) | United Nations Headquarters
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dakar Sea Plaza in Dakar, Senegal

The Collaboration on International ICT Policy in East and Southern Africa (CIPESA), in partnership with Dakar-based AfricTivistes, will host the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa 2024 (FIFAfrica24) set to take place on September 25-27, 2024 in Senegal.

Over the past decade, the FIFAfrica conference has provided a space and garnered a track record of bringing together multi-stakeholder actors and shared efforts aimed at advancing rights, freedoms, participation, and innovation in the digital sphere.

Hosting the 11th edition of FIFAfrica in Senegal provides an avenue for civil society actors to engage with the current Senegalese government as well as other relevant actors in improving the human rights landscape in the country while exploring ways to advance digital rights in the country.

Senegal saw a deterioration of human rights in the last couple of years with increased reports of attacks on press freedom, a crackdown on opposition voices, both online and off, and the arbitrary arrest and detention of protesters in the lead up to the country’s elections. In 2023, Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition recorded four incidents of shutdowns in a government attempt to muzzle free speech, control the flow of information, and crack down on anti-government protests in the country.

Access Now is a key partner of CIPESA and continues to actively participate in FIFAfrica to strengthen our partnership and expand our network within Africa and beyond. In view of this, we are happy to be hosting and participating in this year’s FIFAfrica.

Below are some of the events Access Now staff will be hosting or participating in at FIFAfrica24.

For those who cannot join in person, you can follow the hashtag #FIFAfrica24 on social media for details about how to engage virtually.

Check out the official website for more information about the event.

Registration details

Thursday and Friday, September 26 – 27, 2024

Digital Security Clinic | Access Now, CIPESA, Defenders Protection Initiative (DPI), Internews Network Zambia, 09:00 – 17:00 UTC

Access Now’s exhibition booth, 09:00 – 17:00 UTC at the Exhibition Center

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Benchmarking AI regulations – Assessing Sub-Saharan Africa’s alignment with international norms | CIPIT, Thomson Reuters Foundation and MISA Zimbabwe, 11:30-13:00 UTC at Adansonia

CIPESA and Access Now FIFAfrica24 Cocktail event

Friday, September 27, 2024

Beyond staying or going: Sudan’s insights on the future of digital rights in conflict zones, 14:00 – 15:30 UTC at Mermoz

Prolonged shutdowns: An analysis of the silenced voices in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia
2024-10-29 14:00 - 15:30 (Africa/Accra)
Following the outbreak of conflict between the Amhara Fano and the Ethiopian military in the spring of 2023, the Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency and implemented a telecommunication blackout in the Amhara region starting in August 2023. These shutdowns have raised significant concerns about their impact on human rights, economic development, access to information, and civil society’s ability to function. The Amhara region, already facing challenges related to conflict, poverty, and displacement, has been further impacted by these restrictions on digital communication. The broader conflict in Northern Ethiopia, initially concentrated in Tigray but later spreading to Amhara, has exacerbated vulnerabilities and limited the capacity of local communities to respond to the crises.

This webinar seeks to explore the multifaceted consequences of internet shutdowns in the Amhara region, providing a platform for experts, activists, and scholars to share insights, experiences, and strategies for mitigating these impacts. The discussion will focus on the human rights, socio-economic, and political implications of shutdowns, as well as potential pathways for ensuring that digital rights are respected even in times of crisis.

Objectives

To Highlight Access Now’s research outputs and Amhara Association of America’s (AAA) investigative reports on the situation on the ground.

To analyze the socio-economic impact of internet shutdowns in the Amhara region, focusing on how these measures affect local businesses, education, and public services.

To discuss the human rights implications of internet shutdowns, including the suppression of freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to work.

To explore strategies for advocating against these shutdowns and appealing the government to restore full connectivity in the region.

Speakers

Henok Abebe – Human Rights Researcher and Advocate

Hone Mandefro Belaye – Advocacy Director, Amhara Association of America

Dr. Yohannes Enyew Ayalew – Academic and Digital Human Rights Researcher

Agerie, Program Coordinator for Africa

Kulsuma Nur, Researcher

Moderator: Felicia Anthonio, #KeepItOn Campaign Manager, Access Now

X handles:

Hone Mandefro @HoMan99

Yohannes Eneyew Ayalew @yeayalew

Amhara Association of Amhara Association of America(AAA) የዐማራ ማህበር በአሜሪካ @AAA_Amhara

Watch the discussion

Hosted by:

Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2024: when digital rights collide with digital oppression
2024-12-13 16:00 - 17:30 (Europe/Berlin)
Saudi Arabia has a longstanding record of human rights violations, and in recent years, its digital authoritarianism has escalated to unprecedented and dangerous levels, including repression of free speech, persecution of human rights defenders, and severe restrictions on access to information. While the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2024 aims to promote multi-stakeholder and critical discussions on digital rights and the future of the internet, the decision to host the forum in a country with such egregious human rights violations and no civic space has raised grave concerns among civil society and activists about their ability to safely and meaningfully participate in the IGF discussions, with calls for a change of the host country and some organizations opting to boycott the event.

While the Saudi authorities weaponize international fora such as the IGF to promote a facade of tolerance and progress and to white-wash their abuses, it is more critical than shed light on the country’s rising digital repression. In response, this event will bring together Saudi activists, human rights organizations, and digital rights advocates to examine the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia. It will highlight the ethical concerns surrounding IGF 2024 and amplify the voices calling for the protection of human rights in digital spaces, particularly in countries with a history of abuses.

Objectives

Raise awareness about the human rights crisis in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on digital repression including the escalating crackdown on freedom of expression online, surveillance and the use of spyware to target activists and dissidents, and the persecution and arbitrary detention of activists and journalists.

Examine the ethical implications of hosting the IGF in Saudi Arabia and discuss the paths forward to an inclusive IGF where civil society members can safely and meaningfully participate in important discussions about the future of the internet

Amplify the voices of Saudi activists and human rights defenders directly impacted by the regime’s policies.

Mobilize international solidarity and explore how the global community can advocate for greater accountability for Saudi Arabia’s human rights violations, especially as IGF 2024 approaches.

Defining short-term and long-term plans for actions taken up by all stakeholders to bring about a peaceful change in the Kingdom.

Speakers

Yahya Assiri – Saudi Arabian human rights activist (ALQST)

Michael Page – Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Division (HRW)

Dr. Hala Al-Dosari – Saudi human rights activist, scholar, and writer

Areej Al-Sadhan – Saudi human rights activist sister of political detainee Abdulrahman Al-Sadhan.

Moderator: Marwa Fatafta, MENA Policy and Advocacy Director

Watch the discussion

Hosted by:

Lanzamiento del informe "Privacidad en desplazamiento migratorio" de la Coalición latinoamericana #MigrarSinVigilancia
2024-12-18 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Mexico_City)
La Coalición latinoamericana #MigrarSinVigilancia te invita este 18 de diciembre – día Internacional de la Persona Migrante – al lanzamiento del informe “Privacidad en desplazamiento migratorio. Un diagnóstico sobre la vigilancia, protección de datos y seguridad digital en lugares de acogida de personas migrantes en México. Basado en testimonios.”

El miércoles 18 de diciembre a las 9 AM (hora México) tendremos un evento en línea de lanzamiento, dirigido a investigadores, organizaciones, personas y grupos con interés en aprender más sobre la protección de los derechos digitales y la seguridad digital de albergues, refugios y lugares de acogida de personas migrantes en México.

Sobre el informe

El informe brinda hallazgos obtenidos de los testimonios de diez albergues distribuidos a lo largo del norte, centro y sur de México. Es el resultado de una evaluación de riesgos relacionadas a prácticas de vigilancia y la vulneración de datos personales en contexto migratorio de México, así como de medidas de seguridad para mitigarlos.

Este informe busca facilitar información basándose en las experiencias de las personas que brindan apoyo en terreno a las personas en tránsito, y sugerir rutas de acción para un futuro trabajo colaborativo, donde se puedan atender las necesidades identificadas.

Sobre la Coalición #MigrarSinVigilancia

La coalición #MigrarSinVigilancia está conformada actualmente por más de 30 organizaciones de la sociedad civil organizada con presencia en América Latina. Funciona como un frente común para resguardar los derechos humanos de las personas migrantes a partir de la protección de sus datos personales.

La coalición es apartidista, inclusiva y sin fines de lucro. Más información en: https://www.accessnow.org/campaign/migrarsinvigilancia/

Speakers:

Ximena Mendieta, Asesora de proyectos en el área de Investigación, Centro LATAM Digital

Ángela Alarcón, LAC Campaigner, Access Now

Kathy Kruger, Coordinadora del Programa de Niños No Acompañados, Al Otro Lado.

Santiago Narváez, Oficial de investigación, Red en Defensa de los Derechos Digitales (R3D)

Si te lo perdiste, acá lo puedes ver

Organizado por:

Coalición Latinoamericana

RightsCon 2025, Taipei and online
2025-02-24 08:00 - 2025-02-27 16:15 (Asia/Taipei) | Taipei International Convention Center
Venue: Taipei International Convention Center

Each year, RightsCon convenes business leaders, policy makers, general counsels, government representatives, technologists, academics, journalists, and human rights advocates from around the world to tackle pressing issues at the intersection of human rights and technology. In engaging fireside chats, hands-on workshops, strategic roundtables, private meetings, and a lively exhibition space, RightsCon is where a global movement comes together to build strategies and drive forward change toward a more free, open, and connected digital world.

Over the past 12 years, RightsCon has rotated to key hubs around the world, including San José, Tunis, Toronto, Brussels, Rio de Janeiro, Manila, and San Francisco, and grown, both in size and in scope to meet the evolving needs of a movement.

For its 13th edition, we’re excited to host RightsCon 2025 in Taipei and online from February 24 to 27. As a leading democracy in the region, Taiwan is recognized globally for the freest online environment and greatest human freedom in Asia, a whole-of-society approach to human rights, and a vibrant civil society community. As the routine location of large-scale international events, coupled with the rapidly growing presence of international NGOs and global tech companies, we look forward to hosting our first summit in East Asia in Taipei and returning to the Asia Pacific region after a decade.

REGISTER NOW

Add To Calendar

Hosted by:

Situation of Press Freedom in Tunisia
2025-05-05 08:00 - 13:00 (Europe/Paris) | Hotel Golden Tulip Mechtel, Tunis, Tunisia
In September 2022, Tunisia adopted its first cybercrime law, which diverges significantly from international standards due to its inclusion of content-based offenses and disproportionate sanctions. Article 24 of the law criminalizes the sharing, sending, or publishing of false information, defamatory content, or other forms of expression using vague and overly broad language. It imposes severe penalties ranging from 5 to 10 years in prison, raising serious concerns about its impact on freedom of expression.

Article 24 has been widely used as a legal tool to prosecute journalists, lawyers, and human rights defenders, contributing to the suppression of media diversity, encouraging self-censorship, and discouraging public engagement in democratic debate.

One panel will focus on the recent legislative proposal to amend the cybercrime decree, exploring how to align it with international standards and instruments such as the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime and the UN Cybercrime Treaty, which is expected to open for signatures later this year.

Another panel will examine the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence, with a focus on how journalists and media outlets can leverage AI tools while safeguarding journalistic ethics, copyright protections, and other fundamental rights.

Hosted by:

Strategic Workshop of the DSA Human Rights Alliance
2025-05-05 16:00 - 18:00 (Europe/Brussels) | Digital Rights Hub (Access Now Europe Office), Rue Belliard 12, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
With shrinking civic space, limited funding, and a general democratic decline in the EU and beyond, at-risk communities, including HRDs and exiled media, are becoming increasingly vulnerable online. Human rights defenders act as custodians of human rights. Online platforms often serve as their lifeline for accessing necessary information to continue their advocacy efforts. Nevertheless, HRDs encounter significant threats online, such as malicious cyber activities, online censorship, targeted internet shutdowns, arbitrary or unlawful online surveillance, harassment, smear campaigns, disinformation, and doxxing. While online platforms need heightened due diligence and implement adequate safeguards for HRD safety, the current state of the art remains inadequate.

The DSA human rights alliance strategic meeting will gather alliance members—civil society organizations defending digital rights and communities at risk globally—to strategize and explore methodologies to protect existing positions and advance a common agenda against an increasingly adversarial environment in the EU and beyond.

Hosted by:

Inter-American approach to the AI international regulatory landscape
2025-05-06 16:00 - 18:00 (Europe/Brussels) | Digital Rights Hub (Access Now Europe Office), Rue Belliard 12, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
Depending on the context, the word “regulation” could be seen as a threat since it could imply an incompatibility with innovation and the deployment of emerging technologies such as AI. Even when AI has a good potential to safely support access to goods, justice, and public space, its development should raise the attention of policymakers and justice stakeholders to the risks it implies for human rights, law enforcement, and efficient access to the judicial system.

This session will explore key AI trends in these topics (access to social services, information integrity, law enforcement, and judicial activities), examining whether current approaches respect human rights, uphold state sovereignty, and address environmental impacts. It will provide an in-depth analysis of existing regulations and judicial decisions on AI and the Rule of Law in Latin America vis-à-vis the international regulatory landscape (e.g., UNESCO’s guidelines, European AI Act), focusing on mitigation strategies for human rights impacts.

Discussing regulatory and anti-regulatory approaches, case studies, and regional experiences with AI impacts on human rights, we will provide guidance on the relevant regional and international human rights laws, principles, and emerging jurisprudence that are useful to shape regulations, policies, and practices related to AI that are compatible with human rights and democratic institutions.

Hosted by:

Access Now at Web Summit Vancouver
2025-05-28 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Vancouver)
May 27 – May 30

Vancouver Convention Centre (1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada)

In May 2025, thousands of international entrepreneurs, investors, media outlets, and leaders will convene at Web Summit Vancouver. Dubbed the “world’s premier tech conference” and “Glastonbury for geeks,” the summit is expected to gather over 15,000 attendees from the world’s tech community. Access Now will attend and participate, bringing to bear our unique perspective of the intersection between human rights and technology.

Check out the official website for more information about the event.

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Freedom on the line: Why digital rights matter | Access Now | 16:00

The U.S. administration’s decision to freeze all foreign aid is only the latest in a series of developments that herald a significant downturn in funding for human rights, triggering deep and foundational crises for civil society globally. This session will highlight the current and emerging challenges for digital rights specifically, and a path forward.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

The Digital Rights in Asia-Pacific Assembly (DRAPAC) 2025
2025-08-26 10:00 - 2025-08-28 17:30 (Asia/Kuala_Lumpur)
AICB Centre for Excellence, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Digital Rights in Asia-Pacific Assembly (DRAPAC) 2025 is a pivotal gathering of digital rights advocates, policymakers, and tech experts dedicated to discussing and addressing pressing digital rights issues in the Asia Pacific region.

Below are some of the events Access Now will be joining:

Day 1, 26 August

Tending to the network: the regional scene of digital security support

4:00pm–5:20pm, Kuala Lumpur time | Human Rights Tech Commons Southwest Corner, Second Floor, AICB Centre for Excellence

This social gathering brings together digital security support specialists from across the region to connect and discuss shared experiences and struggles. It is open to anyone providing digital security support to human rights defenders in the region, whether you’re a trainer, researcher, helpline staff, etc. The aim is to create a space where participants can surface their needs, intentions, and potential or future plans where others can support. Hosted by Digital Defenders Partnership (DDP) and Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline.

Day 2, 27 August

Digging deeper: how to embed infrastructure considerations within our work

10:00am–10:50am, Kuala Lumpur time | Theatrette 1.12, First Floor, AICB Centre for Excellence

Digital infrastructure decisions — regarding everything from data centers and cloud architecture to internet exchange points and submarine cables — have deep implications for rights, equity, and resilience. This session will explore why civil society must grapple with the politics of infrastructure and how to do so effectively. Featuring Darika Bamrungchok, Asia Pacific Policy Analyst at Access Now, who will surface regional case studies and entry points for advocacy collaboration.

Designing rights-respecting, culturally sensitive and inclusive DPI

11:00am–11:50am, Kuala Lumpur time | Room 2.12, Second Floor, AICB Centre for Excellence

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is foundational, but without rights-centered design, it can entrench exclusion or surveillance. This ideation workshop spotlights inclusive DPI frameworks tailored to cultural contexts across Asia‑Pacific. Raman Jit Singh Chima, Asia Pacific Policy Director at Access Now, will join the conversation to discuss strategies for embedding rights-based policymaking into DPI rollouts and policy frameworks.

From Vienna to Hanoi: how the UN Convention against Cybercrime will reshape Asia-Pacific

12:00pm–12:50pm, Kuala Lumpur time | Room 2.12, Second Floor, AICB Centre for Excellence

The UN Cybercrime Convention, recently adopted after years of negotiations, is poised to impact national laws and enforcement practices across the region. This session will unpack the treaty’s implications for rights, sovereignty, and cybersecurity in Asia-Pacific, and explore how civil society can engage with implementation processes. Hosted by Access Now, the panel includes Faiz Naeem, Asia Pacific Program Associate at Access Now, Raman Jit Singh Chima, Asia Pacific Policy Director at Access Now, Michael Caster, Head of Global China Programme at Article 19, and Sanhawan (Kay) Srisod, Senior Legal Adviser at ICJ

Future of Digital Rights in ASEAN – consultation on Cybersecurity, Digital Economy, and Artificial Intelligence

12:00pm–12:50pm, Kuala Lumpur time | Room 2.12, Second Floor, AICB Centre for Excellence

As ASEAN develops frameworks on cybersecurity, AI, and digital trade, human rights must remain central. This roundtable consultation brings together civil society voices and policy thinkers to align advocacy strategies and enhance regional participation. It features Laura Naw, East Asia and ASEAN Programme Officer at FORUM‑ASIA, Rachel Arinii Judhistari, Lead Public Policy Speacialist Asia at Wikimedia Foundation, Darika Bamrungchok Asia Pacific Policy Analyst at Access Now, and Lorenzo Urbinati, Strategic Adviser at Oxfam, convened by Oxfam International alongside co‑hosts Wikimedia Foundation, FORUM‑ASIA, EngageMedia, and Access Now.

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Access Now at the 12th edition of CIPESA’s FIFAfrica
2025-09-24 09:00 - 2025-09-26 17:30 (Africa/Windhoek)
Windhoek International Convention Center, Windhoek, Namibia

The Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa 2025 (#FIFAfrica25), hosted by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy in East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) in partnership with Namibia’s Ministry of ICT and the Namibia IGF, will take place in Windhoek, Namibia, 24-26 September, 2025.

Since its inception in 2014, FIFAfrica has provided a vital platform for multistakeholder dialogue and collaboration on advancing digital rights across the continent.

Access Now continues to participate at FIFAfrica to strengthen our partnerships in the region and engage on key areas of our work.

Here’s where you can find Access Now at FIFAFrica25:

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Tuesday 23 – Thursday 25 September, 2025

Africa Cybersecurity Advocacy workshop | Internet Society (ISOC) Global Encryption Coalition (GEC) 09:00 – 17:00 daily

[Workshop session] Africa’s encryption landscape: how African governments undermine the use of encryption | CIPESA & Access Now| Tuesday 23 September 2025 16:30 – 17:30

About: Access Now will join ISOC, CIPESA and other partner organizations of the Global Encryption Coalition to host a three-day cybersecurity advocacy workshop on the sidelines of FIFAfrica25. The workshop is designed to equip encryption advocates with the knowledge and skills to fight anti-encryption legislation and address other evolving threats to encryption across the continent.

Thursday 25 September, 2025

Book launch: Internet shutdowns in Africa | 25 September 9:30 – 11:00 📍Brandberg

Join us and our partners for the launch of a new book, Internet shutdowns in Africa: Technology, Rights and Power, produced by African authors from 11 countries — including Access Now’s Kassem Mnejja, Senior MENA Campaigner, and Felicia Anthonio, #KeepItOn Global Campaign Manager — showcasing the most comprehensive documentation to date of the incidents of internet shutdowns in the selected countries. In this session, authors will unpack how and why shutdowns are imposed, and their impact on peoples’ social, economic and political rights in Uganda, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Nigeria, Chad, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Algeria, and Zimbabwe. This is the first book of its kind dedicated to analysing internet shutdowns in Africa, as well as various forms of resistance that citizens across Africa are using to circumvent, challenge, and end internet shutdowns. It is also the first book to include a comprehensive analysis of the power interests that give rise to internet shutdowns. This session will also engage with participants to share experiences and observations on the subject matter, and connect with the authors. There will be copies of the book available for purchase and download.

Book contributors:

Kassem Mnejja, Access Now, Senior MENA Campaigner

Felicia Anthonio, Access Now, #KeepItOn Global Campaign Manager

Friday 26 September, 2025

Panel: Data protection and cybersecurity in Africa: multi-country insights on key issues and opportunities for strengthening human rights protections | OXFAM and Access Now 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM 📍Kuiseb Hall.About: OXFAM and Access Now are hosting a panel discussion to explore key issues and opportunities for strengthening human rights protections in cyber policy and data protection implementation across Africa. The panel will feature speakers from Tunisia, Somalia, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Panel: #KeepItOn: Resisting internet shutdowns during conflict and turmoil – lessons from across Africa | Access Now and AWAFY Sudanese Organization 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM 📍Omatako 4About: This session explores how governments across Africa deploy internet shutdowns as tools of repression during conflict and political instability. With a focus on the prolonged weaponization of blackouts and internet shutdowns during times of conflict in Sudan and Ethiopia’s Tigray region, as well as insights from Equatorial Guinea and Senegal, the session offers strategies for resistance, advocacy, and legal pushback, centering local voices from these countries.

Access Now at India AI Impact Summit 2026
2026-02-16 00:00 - 2026-02-20 23:59 (Asia/Kolkata)
Bharat Mandapam

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is a high-profile international event involving heads of state and government, ministers, senior government officials, international delegations, industry leaders, media, and general delegates. Building on the momentum of previous multilateral initiatives, including the Bletchley Park, Seoul, Paris, and Kigali Summits, the AI Impact Summit is envisaged to mark a shift from aspirations to impact, demonstrating how AI can deliver tangible outcomes for people, planet, and progress.

Below are some of the events Access Now will be joining at the India AI Impact Summit:

19 February

Fireside chat and high-level reception

7:30 pm onwards, Indian Standard Time | Fountain Lawn, India International Centre Main Building

Access Now, along with Aapti Institute and AI Now, is hosting an evening that steps away from the formal summit agenda and into a sharp, thoughtful, and candid exchange about where AI is headed and what is being left unsaid in official rooms. The centerpiece is a fireside chat bringing together three exceptional voices:

Brando Benifei, Member of the European Parliament and a key architect of the EU AI Act;

Karen Hao, the award-winning journalist and author of “Empire of AI,” whose reporting has deeply shaped our understanding of power and technology; and

Seema Chishti, Editor of The Wire, known for her incisive political analysis and journalism.

Together, they will reflect on AI, governance, and power in a provocative conversation designed to cut through the usual rhetoric and get to the real tensions shaping our digital future. Following the discussion, we will host an informal networking reception from 9:00 PM onwards. We know schedules are packed, so please feel free to join for the full discussion or simply stop by for the reception.

20 February

The AI-Cyber Nexus: A Strategic Dialogue on Global Security, Trust, and Governance

3:30 pm–4:25 pm, Indian Standard Time | Chanakya Auditorium, Sushma Swaraj Bhawan

Access Now and Global Partners Digital are co-organising this session at the India AI Impact Summit to move the conversation beyond hype and headlines toward real policy, real risks, and real choices. Rather than treating AI and cybersecurity as separate worlds, this discussion brings them together, asking what it actually means to build AI that is secure, trustworthy, and rights-respecting in practice.

This session aims to propose a technically grounded conversation on the cybersecurity implications of large language models and agentic AI. Using the confidentiality-integrity-availability (CIA) framework, it will explore how advanced AI tools impact privacy, encryption, information integrity, and resilience of critical services. Instead of abstract warnings, panelists will draw on concrete experience from cybersecurity and AI governance to identify what governments, companies, and civil society should do, and what they should avoid.

The panel will open by remarks from Access Now’s Executive Director, Alejandro Mayoral Banos, and will be moderated by Nirmal John, Senior Editor at Economic Times. Panelists include Access Now’s Global Cybersecurity Lead, Raman Jit Singh Chima; Anne Marie Engtoft Meldgaard, Tech Ambassador, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Denmark; Maria Paz Canales, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Global Partners Digital; Udbhav Tiwari, Vice President, Strategy and Global Affairs at Signal; and Nikolas Schmidt Policy Analyst, Division of AI and Emerging Tech at OECD.

Note: This session is a part of the official agenda for the AI Impact Summit and requires registration with the event.

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The Fireside chat and high level reception (19th Feb – 7:30 PM onwards)

The AI-Cyber Nexus: A Strategic Dialogue on Global Security, Trust, and Governance (20th Feb – 3:30 to 4:30 PM)

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Advancing Rights-Centered reporting on Nigeria's Cybercrimes Act
2026-04-21 13:00 - 14:30 (Africa/Lagos)
Since Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act was passed in 2015, more than two dozen journalists, human rights defenders and whistleblowers have been targeted by authorities, using overbroad prohibitions on “cyberstalking” to punish critical online speech and silence opposition voices.

Alongside Human Rights Journalists Network, Socio Economic Rights & Accountability Project (SERAP), and Avocats Sans Frontiers Nigeria (E-Rights Nigeria Project), Access Now will be hosting a webinar on 21 April at 1:00 PM GMT+1 where we will unpack the human rights implications of Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and discuss with journalists and human rights organizations, rights based framing for reporting accurately, responsibly, and critically on cybercrime-related cases and ongoing reform efforts by civil society.

The speakers are:

Moderator: Kehinde Adegboyega, Executive Director, Human Rights Journalists Network

Speakers:

Naro Omo-Osagie, Africa Policy Manager, Access Now

Angela Uwandu Uzoma-Uwuchukwu, Head of Office, Avocats Sans Frontieres Nigeria (Convener E-Rights Nigeria Project)

Olúwádàre A. Kóláwolé, Deputy Director, Socio Economic Rights & Accountability Project (SERAP)

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Digital security in war and conflict: challenges for civil society and tools for resilience
2026-05-19 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York)
register here

Actors engaged in humanitarian protection and human rights now recognize digital- related harms as a component of war and conflicts. Humanitarian organizations, as well as other actors that intervene and support, like private companies and civil society, are reorienting their work to support individuals and communities to stay safe online in the context of armed conflict and humanitarian crises.

As part of the Digital Security Helpline’s efforts to address this complex challenge, we will host a webinar that focuses on the specific threats and challenges for civil society. The webinar will take place on May 19, 2026, at 9:00 am EST (15:00 pm CEST, 21:00 pm Philippines and Western Indonesia).

This event is part of “Safe and strong”: a webinar series on digital security, an initiative of the Digital Security Helpline to bring together civil society, private sector partners, and other support organizations, to discuss how to increase resilience in the digital age.

Registration is available here.

“SAFE AND STRONG”: A WEBINAR SERIES ON DIGITAL SECURITY

is an initiative of the Digital Security Helpline to bring together civil society, private sector partners, and other support organizations, to discuss how to increase resilience in the digital age.

Speakers:

Mahsa Alimardani is the Associate Director of the Technology Threats & Opportunities program at WITNESS. She has over a decade of experience working at the intersection of digital rights, freedom of expression, and emerging technologies, leading research and advocacy on digital repression and contributing to the design and development of technologies that serve the most vulnerable.

Jocelyn Woolbright serves as a Program Manager on Cloudflare’s Public Policy team, where she oversees initiatives to protect human rights defenders, journalism organizations, and state and local governments online. Her work includes conducting digital security training and providing threat briefings to civil society groups on emerging cyberattacks that target vulnerable populations worldwide.

Mia Marzotto is the Digital Rights Advocacy Lead at Oxfam. She is part of the project management unit of a multi-year multi-country program, connecting community-level action, policy influence, and corporate accountability on digital rights. Her past roles include working with The Signals Network on whistleblower protection and with Translators without Borders on humanitarian and development policy influencing. Mia holds an MA in International Affairs from The New School and an LLM in International Human Rights Law from the University of Essex.

Luis Barrueto is the Administrative and Communications Coordinator at Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline, where he provides across-the-board project support to the team offering 24/7 digital security assistance. His previous background in the Americas includes as founder of an LGBTQ+ activist organization in Guatemala and as a strategic communications and advocacy advisor to human rights organizations in Central America, Mexico, and Colombia.

Giulio Coppi (moderator) is the Senior Humanitarian Officer at Access Now. He has over 15 years of international experience across the humanitarian, human rights, and academic sectors. He has worked with NRC, ICRC, OCHA, and OHCHR, among others, and has experience responding to crisis contexts in several countries. At Access Now, Giulio is responsible for monitoring and advising on digital rights in the context of conflict and disaster; advancing protection from digital harm through international humanitarian law norms, customs, and principles; and promoting ethical approaches to the design and delivery of technological systems by private companies.

PREVIOUS SESSIONS

Spear-phishing (March)

[March 10, 2026] Spear phishing: how to stay safe and prevent advanced attacks against civil society

Rebekah Brown, Citizen Lab

Justin Albrecht, Lookout.

Mykola Kostynyan, Resident.NGO

Marilou Maala and Mohammed Al-Maskati (moderator), Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline

Digital security in war and conflict (May)

[May 19, 2026] Digital security in war and conflict: challenges for civil society and tools for resilience

Jocelyn Woolbright, Program Manager on Cloudflare’s Public Policy team

Mia Marzotto, Digital Rights Advocacy Lead at Oxfam

Luis Barrueto, Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline

Giulio Coppi, Senior Humanitarian Officer at Access Now

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