Helsinki Commission to Hold Briefing on Internet Freedom

WASHINGTON -The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) announced today a staff briefing:

Another Brick in the Wall: What do Dissidents Need Now from the Internet?

Wednesday, May 18

2:00pm

Room 2218 Rayburn House Office Building

The Arab Spring showcased the important role social media played in helping dissidents organize protests, but it also highlighted how these same platforms can be just as useful surveillance and detection tools by governments. At this briefing, experts will talk about the changes in technologies and social media platforms that enable dissidents to access information and to communicate; and discuss ways in which business practices, regulations and foreign policies can help or hurt activists in repressive countries.

Panelists:

• Rebecca MacKinnon, New America Foundation and Global Voices
• Robert Guerra, Freedom House
• Kathleen Reen, Internews