Specific Issues for Discussion:
The Internet is simultaneously the frontline for human rights defenders’ (HRDs) efforts to promote and protect universally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms, and also the frontline of restrictions on their freedoms of expression, association and assembly, and their exposure to harassment and defamation, and acts of intimidation and reprisals.
Global indicators highlight a concerning decline in the quality of civic spaces across Asia and the Pacific over the past two decades; a challenging landscape for HRDs in this region.
Our session will focus on the complexities and strategies related to digital trust and cyber resilience for HRDs.
Building HRDs’ digital trust: The session will explore Meta’s role in enhancing digital trust for HRDs. Central to this discussion will be how Meta upholds HRDs’ freedom of expression and privacy, alongside its efforts to combat misinformation and maintain information integrity. The session will highlight Meta’s tools and policies specifically designed to support HRDs, examining their efficacy and areas for improvement.
Building HRDs’ cyber resilience: The session will consider Microsoft’s efforts in supporting cyber resilience for HRDs. This discussion will cover the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, resilience against nation state and non-state cyber-attacks, and strategies for safeguarding sensitive data. We will evaluate Microsoft’s approach to cyber resilience for HRDs, considering its impact and potential enhancements.
Collaborative frameworks and policies: BSR will examine best practice collaboration between corporations, NGOs, governments, and HRDs themselves. We aim to outline corporate responsibilities to respect the digital rights and security of HRDs in Asia and the Pacific and the key role of multistakeholder cooperation in discharging those duties.
The session will feature case studies, interactive discussions, and expert insights to foster a comprehensive understanding.
