The Knowmad Institut, together with the C4 Recovery Foundation and the Priestly Mission, has presented a joint statement to the Ad Hoc Committee, highlighting the need to balance combating cybercrime with the protection of fundamental human rights while promoting international cooperation and sustainable development.
In an ever-evolving digital world, it is crucial to preserve human rights while ensuring security. This joint statement aims to address these challenges, advocating for an effective international convention that respects human dignity.
Human Rights and Dignity
The Knowmad Institut emphasizes incorporating human rights at the core of the convention, protecting privacy, freedom of expression, and access to public information. The statement proposes that the convention explicitly reference international frameworks such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
Definition of Cybercrimes
The statement recommends specifying that cybercrimes can be committed by individuals, legal entities, state, and non-state actors, including espionage against activists and journalists. It supports Costa Rica’s proposal to include political crimes, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Protection of Vulnerable Groups
The convention should adopt an inclusive approach, considering intersectionality and gender, and focus on groups affected by political, ethnic, religious, or migratory conflicts. This will foster international cooperation and ensure equitable and non-discriminatory measures.
Concerns about Mass Surveillance
Clear safeguards are necessary to prevent the misuse of the convention to justify mass surveillance, especially in the Global North, where migrant and displaced populations could be disproportionately affected.
Adaptation to Technological Changes
The rapid evolution of cyberspace requires continuous updates to the convention. The statement advocates for rigorous oversight of espionage and intelligence gathering, promoting robust encryption and data anonymization protocols.
Educational and Awareness Programs
Promoting awareness and education about ICT security is fundamental. Informing the public about risks and providing preventive measures is critical to minimizing the impact of cyber incidents.
Protection of Children in Cyberspace
The statement highlights the importance of protecting children online, advocating for clear definitions in relevant articles to ensure effective protection. International cooperation is essential to prevent and prosecute online child sexual abuse.
Proportional and Effective Sanctions
Sanctions for cybercrimes must be proportional and effective. The statement suggests a range of penalties, from educational programs to economic sanctions and imprisonment, depending on the cybercrime’s impact.
Finally, the Knowmad Institut, the C4 Recovery Foundation, and the Priestly Mission call on the States Parties to maintain a human rights-centered approach when formulating and implementing measures against cybercrime. Protecting and promoting human dignity is fundamental to a safe and just digital environment.
