DRAPAC Series: human rights responsibilities and challenges for tech companies operating in authoritarian countries
Across the Asia region, an explosion in internet use in recent decades has coincided with a rise in authoritarianism in several countries. Many global tech companies have enthusiastically pursued users in Asian markets, often without careful assessment of the human rights challenges involved when operating under authoritarian regimes. In some countries, tech companies face legal and policy demands to cooperate directly in human rights abuses.
[Event postponed] We are actively working to reschedule the event and we will update this page of the new date and time as soon as it is available. Thank you for understanding.
Note: Registration is now required to join the conversation.
Date and Time: February 7, 1PM – 2:30PM Bangkok time (UTC+7)
Room: Zoom (to be emailed to registrants prior to the event)
Description:
Across the Asia region, an explosion in internet use in recent decades has coincided with a rise in authoritarianism in several countries. Many global tech companies have enthusiastically pursued users in Asian markets, often without careful assessment of the human rights challenges involved when operating under authoritarian regimes. In some countries, tech companies face legal and policy demands to cooperate directly in human rights abuses.
Article 19 published a report on “Human Rights Responsibilities and Challenges For Tech Companies Operating In Authoritarian Countries” to assess the challenges faced in China, Myanmar and Vietnam in upholding the rights to freedom of expression and privacy, criticizing the passive compliance of tech companies with local laws that often result in human rights abuses.
This DRAPAC Series will delve into the findings of the report on the human rights responsibilities and challenges of tech companies in China, Myanmar, and Vietnam as well as explore the recommendations for improving tech companies’ respect for human rights in authoritarian contexts.
Find out more abotu the event here.
