Digital technologies have significantly transformed the communication patterns and behaviors of individuals, communities and societies. Algorithmic systems and data-based micro-targeting tools shape our social, economic and political lives, affect our governance and influence the distribution of resources.
Freedom of expression, which includes freedom of information and media freedom, is crucial for the fulfillment and protection of all other human rights. It enables citizens to make informed choices, to participate actively in democratic processes, and to help ensure that powerful interests are held to account. During times of crisis, more than ever, we need freedom of expression and independent journalism to keep the public informed, counter rumors and disinformation, and help scrutinize decision-making.
Yet, freedom of expression is increasingly shaped in multiple ways by technologies that rank speech for profit, seek to grab attention with sensationalist headlines and alter the business model of news outlets away from reader trust and towards “clicks”. The encouragement of “likes” and “shares” crowds out analysis and nuance in favor of shocking, often hateful exchanges, ultimately silencing many.
The shift to digital media and the flow of online advertising revenue towards social media and search engines rather than media websites has caused a precarious economic situation for media and has contributed in many countries to their monopolisation and fragmentation.
What was once hailed as a great promoter of freedom of expression – virtually unlimited access to information online – has now been confronted with major challenges: faced with unprecedented volumes of content, it is increasingly difficult for individuals to discern what is true and who to believe. This causes confusion, contributes to ‘information disorder’ and impacts negatively on society’s trust in the media and in democratic institutions more broadly.
How can freedom of expression and media freedom be protected in the attention economy, where the dominant business models reward engagement and noise over deliberation and facts?
