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In an age of widespread online journalism, Internet users
worldwide are exposed to stories, footage, and leaks that probably would have
gone unpublished in the print age. In response, YouTube has opened up the floor
to commentary on the current condition of online freedom of expression. They're calling on all Internet users, bloggers, and activists to submit their views on
what they consider the biggest barriers to free speech online. Video or text
responses sent in will be used as part of an international conference on
freedom of expression on the Internet, to be held in
The conference will be hosted by YouTube, Google, and the
So far, YouTube has already received more than 200 responses
to the question, "What's the biggest barrier to free expression on the
Internet, and what would you do to overcome it?" according to YouTube's
official blog.
A number of participants have cited government censorship as a key obstacle to
Internet freedom, accusing in particular the governments of
Some respondents said they think it is important to curtail the amount of information that can be gathered about a particular individual, but also that online anonymity means that people are unable to share their views without fear of reprisal. One user said they feel that the biggest problem with online expression is a lack of access to it, saying that governments should make it a priority to provide all citizens with access to the Internet.
Alia Ahmed is an intern in CPJ's Journalist Assistance program.
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