This paper examines three current issues: (1) access, connectivity, and internet shutdowns, (2) unlawful surveillance and the right to privacy, and (3) the influence of the private sector in online civic space. It is supported by case studies from regions across the world, aims to provide an overview of the state of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association in the digital age and a series of tailored recommendations for various stakeholders.

Key Recommendations:

Recommendations for states

1. Protect and promote the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, even amid crises
2. Ensure universal access to ICTs, which are essential to the exercise of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association in the digital age
3. Recognize and protect the right to protest as it extends online and into digital spaces, which may be publicly or privately owned and operated.

Recommendation for the private sector

1. Fulfill international obligations to respect the rights to freedoms of peaceful assembly and of association.