The Right To Freedom Of Speech: Evolution In The Digital Age

Abstract

The article examines changes in the possibilities of exercising the right to freedom of speech, caused by the widespread introduction of modern digital technologies. It is concluded that the evolution of the right to freedom of speech in the modern world has led to the fact that its implementation is increasingly dependent on various private companies -owners of multi-user information systems, primarily social networks. The current situation is in conflict with the needs of society in the free flow of information, in particular, of general significance. The need for the development of legislation that establishes guarantees of freedom of speech in multi-user information systems for the mass dissemination of information is substantiated. In particular, by analogy with the legislation establishing an exhaustive list of grounds for blocking (temporary or permanent) sites and accounts on social networks by state bodies, a list of similar grounds for the administrations of these systems should be established. Also, users should be given the opportunity to judicially challenge such actions on the part of the administration -if he believes that his right to freedom of speech was unlawfully limited. It is also advisable to attach a special regime for some accounts ("public accounts"). Public accounts can include accounts through which socially significant information is distributed. For public accounts, additional guarantees for the exercise of freedom of speech should be established.