Digital Human Rights in Public International Law

Abstract

The contemporary era is witnessing the emergence of a new facet of human rights, manifested in "digital rights," which have become a defining characteristic of modern societies due to their close nexus with the rapid evolution of the information revolution and modern technologies, and the consequent massive expansion in data processing and transmission. This study primarily aims to conceptualize digital human rights and delineate their legal dimensions within cyberspace, while elucidating the role of international organizations-predominantly the United Nations-in affirming and universally recognizing these rights, as well as emphasizing the imperative of their international protection. Furthermore, the study examines the novel legal challenges and violations confronting individuals as a result of the adverse exploitation of technology.

To achieve these objectives, the study adopts the descriptive-analytical approach to analyze relevant international instruments and conventions. The study concludes that digital technology has become a highly influential factor across various legal and political spectrums.

Moreover, the safeguarding of digital rights-chiefly the right to privacy and freedom of expression-necessitates concerted international efforts and the enactment of deterrent national legislation, which would significantly contribute to curbing digital violations and bridging the technological divide among societies.