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Understanding the Global Digital Compact: Shaping the Future of Digital Rights

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has transformed the way we communicate, access information, and participate in society. However, this digital revolution has also brought significant challenges, including concerns over privacy, online safety, digital inequality, and the role of big tech companies in governance. To address these challenges and create a more inclusive and fair digital future, the United Nations has proposed the Global Digital Compact (GDC) —a framework aimed at setting global principles for digital cooperation and governance. What is the Global Digital Compact? The Global Digital Compact is an initiative proposed by the United Nations to establish a set of global principles to guide the use of digital technologies. It is expected to be a core part of the Summit of the Future in 2024 , bringing together governments, private sector actors, civil society, and other stakeholders to build a more open, safe, and human-centered digital space . The Compact seeks...

Surveillance Capitalism or Democracy: Who Knows, Who Decides?

In today’s interconnected digital world, the tension between surveillance capitalism and democracy has become a pressing issue. Surveillance capitalism, a term popularized by Shoshana Zuboff in her book The Age of Surveillance Capitalism , refers to the commodification of personal data by corporations to predict and influence consumer behavior. While it has transformed businesses and created immense profits, it raises critical questions about individual autonomy, privacy, and democratic governance. On the other hand, democracy emphasizes citizen empowerment, accountability, and informed decision-making. But as surveillance capitalism grows more pervasive, the question arises: does it undermine democratic values? And if so, who gets to decide how data is collected, used, and governed? Surveillance Capitalism: A New Economic Logic Surveillance capitalism thrives on the extraction and monetization of behavioral data. Every search, click, or swipe generates a trail of information tha...