VOX-Pol Workshop on the Role of Social Media and Internet Companies in Responding to Violent Online Political Extremism and the Impacts on Freedom of Expression

CMDS is organizing a VOX-Pol workshop on the role of social media and internet companies in responding to violent online political extremism and the impacts on freedom of expression. This call is especially timely given the Joint Statement of EU Ministers for Interior and Justice issued in the wake of the attacks in Paris which expressed ’ concern at the “increasingly frequent use of the Internet to fuel hatred and violence.” It further stated that “the partnership of the major Internet providers is essential to create the conditions of a swift reporting of material that aims to incite hatred and terror and the condition of its removing, where appropriate/possible.” In response, concerns over freedom of expression and privacy have been expressed, especially over the potential for increased surveillance. In order to respond to the complexities of violent online extremism in ways that respect freedom of expression, privacy and security, there needs to be a better understanding of the ways in which the internet is governed, the role of technology companies as political intermediaries as well as the meaning and scope of relevant human rights, particularly freedom of expression. This is an invitation-only workshop held under the Chattam House Rule which will feature invited participants from civil society, industry, policy making and academia.