https://wiki.digitalrights.community/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=AndreaTCU Wiki - User contributions [en]2026-05-03T00:00:22ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.42.3https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=2026_Global_Gathering_Programming&diff=555972026 Global Gathering Programming2026-03-04T18:12:32Z<p>Andrea: /* The Format */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;"><br />
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li><br />
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li><br />
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li><br />
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li><br />
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li><br />
</ul><br />
</div><br />
<br />
==== '''<big>Open Call for Programming Starts March 19!</big>''' ====<br />
The link to the open call for programming will be shared with all approved GG attendees on March 19. For this reason, make sure to submit your GG application as soon as possible! <br />
<br />
== '''What We Are Looking for...''' ==<br />
At the GG we are looking for programming that reflects real needs on the ground and helps tackle urgent tech/digital challenges impacting civil society, defenders, and journalists on the local, regional, and global levels. We especially love programming that is used to advance goals, improve skills, deepen knowledge around a specific area, or address known or emerging challenges. To facilitate these conversations, we use ''Circles'', ''Meetups'', ''Skill-Share Workshops'', and ''Villages''. <br />
<br />
We also love when projects and individuals share their work with others. To help organizations highlight their projects, we use ''Booths'', and in rare occasions, ''Circles''. <br />
<br />
== '''The Format''' ==<br />
Given the state of the world and the numerous challenges facing the digital rights space, we have begun working on programming earlier this year in order to coordinate more pre-event and morning activities and strengthen the GG's impact. Programming formats this year will include: <br />
<br />
'''Circles''', or collaborative discussions that draw out collective wisdom, facilitate brainstorming, or help problem-solve around challenges.<br />
<br />
'''Booths''', which allow projects to use one of the venue’s permanent structures to showcase their work, demo a tool, run a skill-share, or have one-to-one conversations with participants. [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/how-gg-booths-help-you-achieve-your-goals Read about why our booth design is unique.] <br />
<br />
'''Meetups''' are designed to gather participants who share a commonality or interest in a more informal setting. While Team CommUNITY will be coordinating a select number of topical and regional networking meetups, participants will be provided with tools to self-organize their own meetups.<br />
<br />
'''Skill-Share Workshops:''' Additionally, in response to your feedback, more skill-share workshops will be included in the 2026 event programming.<br />
<br />
'''Villages''', which combine Circles and Booths into their programming and are community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities. <br />
<br />
== '''2026 Themes''' ==<br />
In addition to the themes listed below, the areas we will be highlighting through collaborative programming include: spyware response, secure communications, and organizational security, as well as autonomous infrastructure and circumvention technology.<br />
<br />
=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===<br />
* Best practices for navigating new organizational realities<br />
* Organizational security in low-resource environments<br />
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists <br />
* Challenges and updates in security education and training <br />
* Whistleblowing protection<br />
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field<br />
<br />
=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===<br />
* Current research and frontline insights<br />
* Threat and/or trend discovery<br />
* New and emerging spyware developments<br />
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools<br />
* Open source circumvention and encrypted communications tools, as well as protocols and effective approaches to tool use<br />
* Emerging technological challenges and trends in digital surveillance and censorship<br />
* Challenges and updates in security education and training<br />
<br />
=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===<br />
* Building decentralized and community-owned technologies.<br />
* Common challenges and practical approaches to self-hosting, adopting open source tools, and divesting from extractive technologies<br />
<br />
=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===<br />
* Updates on current trends in disinformation, platform accountability, and other emerging tech-related issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences<br />
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions<br />
* Best practices to navigate internet shutdowns<br />
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and combatting disinformation campaigns<br />
* AI and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity, and access<br />
* Embedding human rights principles into automated processes<br />
<br />
=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation''' ===<br />
* Updates to laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.<br />
* Use of legal and regulatory mechanisms to attack civil society, e.g. SLAPPs<br />
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks<br />
* Global impact and implications of regional tech policy and regulation</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=55595Hotels and Transportation2026-03-03T18:17:32Z<p>Andrea: /* 🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts */</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;"><br />
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li><br />
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li><br />
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li><br />
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li><br />
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li><br />
</ul><br />
</div><br />
__TOC__<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:Hoteltrain.png|left|frameless|136x136px]]<br />
Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. <br />
<br />
It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
== '''Hotels''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|412x412px]]<br />
Below are hotel options within walking or short train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal. <br />
<br />
👉 Prices are approximate and may vary at the time of booking.<br />
<br />
👉 Please confirm bed configuration when reserving — “double room” does not always mean two beds.<br />
<br />
👉 Portugal has an excellent transportation system and relatively affordable car services. We encourage you to consider lodging in neighboring towns for more budget-friendly options.<br />
<br />
👉 Check out our [[Navigating Estoril|interactive map of Estoril]] to get a lay of the land. <div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
=== <big>🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts</big> ===<br />
'''To access a 10% discount on your booking, use GG2026 at check out.''' <div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Inglaterra</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €145–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 684 461<br><br />
✉ Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Riviera Hotel Carcavelos</strong><br><br />
📍 30-minute train ride from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €100–130<br><br />
☎ +351 214 586 600<br><br />
✉ comercial@rivierahotel.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.rivierahotel.pt/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏛️ Other Hotels in Estoril</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== <big>💶 €100–150 per night</big> ====<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><strong>Hotel Alvorada</strong><br><br />
📍 350 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €130–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 649 860<br><br />
✉ reservas@hotelalvorada.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelalvorada.com</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Lido</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €140–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 679 420<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
==== <big>💶 €150–200 per night</big> ====<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Vila Galé Estoril</strong><br><br />
📍 450 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €165–180<br><br />
☎ +351 214 648 400<br><br />
✉ estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Clube do Lago Hotel</strong><br><br />
📍 18-minute walk from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €150–190<br><br />
☎ +351 214 666 000<br><br />
✉ reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Amazonia Estoril Hotel</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €150–180<br><br />
☎ +351 213 199 150<br><br />
✉ reservas@amazoniahoteis.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏘️ Hotels & Hostels near Estoril (Cascais)</big> ===<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais</strong><br><br />
🚌 25-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 Dorm: €30–40<br><br />
💶 Private: €100–130<br><br />
☎ +351 916 880 056<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.ljmonade.com/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Cascais City & Beach Hotel</strong><br><br />
🚌 20-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 €190–200<br><br />
☎ +351 211 164 330<br><br />
✉ reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 0 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Sui7es Guest House – Cascais</strong><br><br />
🚌 15-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 €175–185<br><br />
☎ +351 215 801 187<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://sui7es.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏡 Other Rental Options</big> ===<br />
<br />
<div style="border:3px solid #6ED7D9;; border-radius:8px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril–Cascais area:</strong><br />
<ul><br />
<li><strong>Vrbo</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.vrbo.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Hostelworld</strong> – <nowiki>https://hostelworld.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Airbnb*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.airbnb.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Booking.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.booking.com</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Hotels.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.hotels.com/</nowiki></li><br />
</ul><small><br />
*Some platforms are listed in boycott databases and referenced in a U.N. Special Rapporteur report regarding business activity in illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.</small><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br />
== '''Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area''' ==<br />
<br />
=== 🚃 Metro Area Train Systems ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
<br />
=== 🚖 Taxis and Ride Sharing Services ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== '''🚲''' Bike Rentals ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
== '''Getting to Estoril''' '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== ✈️🚆 From the Airport Via Metro & Train ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== ✈️ 🚖 From the Airport Via Taxi ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two.<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
<br />
==== 🏰🚆 Fom Central Lisbon Via Train ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=55594Hotels and Transportation2026-03-03T18:16:57Z<p>Andrea: Updated discounts</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;"><br />
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li><br />
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li><br />
<li>[[2026 Global Gathering Programming|Programming]]</li><br />
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li><br />
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li><br />
</ul><br />
</div><br />
__TOC__<br />
<br />
<br />
[[File:Hoteltrain.png|left|frameless|136x136px]]<br />
Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. <br />
<br />
It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafes, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.<br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
<br><br />
== '''Hotels''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|412x412px]]<br />
Below are hotel options within walking or short train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal. <br />
<br />
👉 Prices are approximate and may vary at the time of booking.<br />
<br />
👉 Please confirm bed configuration when reserving — “double room” does not always mean two beds.<br />
<br />
👉 Portugal has an excellent transportation system and relatively affordable car services. We encourage you to consider lodging in neighboring towns for more budget-friendly options.<br />
<br />
👉 Check out our [[Navigating Estoril|interactive map of Estoril]] to get a lay of the land. <div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
=== <big>🏨 Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts</big> ===<br />
'''To access 10% discounts, use GG2026 at check out.''' <div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Inglaterra</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €145–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 684 461<br><br />
✉ Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#68dda2; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Riviera Hotel Carcavelos</strong><br><br />
📍 30-minute train ride from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €100–130<br><br />
☎ +351 214 586 600<br><br />
✉ comercial@rivierahotel.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.rivierahotel.pt/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏛️ Other Hotels in Estoril</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== <big>💶 €100–150 per night</big> ====<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><strong>Hotel Alvorada</strong><br><br />
📍 350 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €130–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 649 860<br><br />
✉ reservas@hotelalvorada.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotelalvorada.com</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Lido</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €140–150<br><br />
☎ +351 214 679 420<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
==== <big>💶 €150–200 per night</big> ====<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Hotel Vila Galé Estoril</strong><br><br />
📍 450 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €165–180<br><br />
☎ +351 214 648 400<br><br />
✉ estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Clube do Lago Hotel</strong><br><br />
📍 18-minute walk from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €150–190<br><br />
☎ +351 214 666 000<br><br />
✉ reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#FFF4CC; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Amazonia Estoril Hotel</strong><br><br />
📍 600 m from GG venue<br><br />
💶 €150–180<br><br />
☎ +351 213 199 150<br><br />
✉ reservas@amazoniahoteis.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏘️ Hotels & Hostels near Estoril (Cascais)</big> ===<br />
<br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais</strong><br><br />
🚌 25-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 Dorm: €30–40<br><br />
💶 Private: €100–130<br><br />
☎ +351 916 880 056<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.ljmonade.com/</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 1% 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Cascais City & Beach Hotel</strong><br><br />
🚌 20-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 €190–200<br><br />
☎ +351 211 164 330<br><br />
✉ reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:inline-block; width:32%; min-width:180px; vertical-align:top; box-sizing:border-box;<br />
border:1px solid #CFC8DE; border-radius:10px; padding:14px; margin:0 0 14px 0;<br />
background:#EEEAF4; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>Sui7es Guest House – Cascais</strong><br><br />
🚌 15-minute trip by public transport<br><br />
💶 €175–185<br><br />
☎ +351 215 801 187<br><br />
🌐 <nowiki>https://sui7es.pt</nowiki><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== <big>🏡 Other Rental Options</big> ===<br />
<br />
<div style="border:3px solid #6ED7D9;; border-radius:8px; padding:14px; background:#E9F7F3; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<strong>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril–Cascais area:</strong><br />
<ul><br />
<li><strong>Vrbo</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.vrbo.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Hostelworld</strong> – <nowiki>https://hostelworld.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Airbnb*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.airbnb.com/</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Booking.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.booking.com</nowiki></li><br />
<li><strong>Hotels.com*</strong> – <nowiki>https://www.hotels.com/</nowiki></li><br />
</ul><small><br />
*Some platforms are listed in boycott databases and referenced in a U.N. Special Rapporteur report regarding business activity in illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.</small><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br />
== '''Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area''' ==<br />
<br />
=== 🚃 Metro Area Train Systems ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
<br />
=== 🚖 Taxis and Ride Sharing Services ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== '''🚲''' Bike Rentals ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
== '''Getting to Estoril''' '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== ✈️🚆 From the Airport Via Metro & Train ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== ✈️ 🚖 From the Airport Via Taxi ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two.<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
<br />
==== 🏰🚆 Fom Central Lisbon Via Train ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=GGProgram2026&diff=55518GGProgram20262026-02-12T10:56:09Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;"><br />
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li><br />
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li><br />
<li>[[GGProgram2026|Programming]]</li><br />
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li><br />
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li><br />
</ul><br />
</div><br />
<br />
In several months, we will be sharing a call for proposals where approved participants can submit ideas for Circles, Meetups, and Booths. In response to your feedback, more skillshares will be included in the 2026 event programming.<br />
<br />
== '''The Format''' ==<br />
'''Circles''', or collaborative discussions that draw out collective wisdom, facilitate brainstorming, or help problem-solve around challenges.<br />
<br />
'''Booths''' allow projects to use one of the venue’s permanent structures to showcase their work, demo a tool, run a skillshare, or have one-to-one conversations with participants.<br />
<br />
'''Meetups''' are designed to gather participants who share a commonality or interest in a more informal setting. While Team CommUNITY will be coordinating a select number of topical and regional networking meetups, participants will be provided with tools to self-organize their own meetups.<br />
<br />
'''Villages:''' In some cases, we will be grouping Circles and Booths into Villages, which are community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices. In the past, organizations and networks have hosted villages centered on their core work, shared challenges, or regional priorities. <br />
<br />
== '''2026 Themes''' ==<br />
<br />
=== '''Ecosystem Security, Sustainability, and Health''' ===<br />
<br />
* Identifying and onboarding new funders to the field<br />
* Best practices navigating new organizational realities<br />
* Org security in low-resource environments<br />
* Digital security training for at-risk groups and journalists <br />
* Whistleblowing protection<br />
<br />
=== '''Surveillance and Censorship''' ===<br />
<br />
* Showcasing current research and frontline insights<br />
* Conversations that allow for threat and/or trend discovery<br />
* New and emerging spyware developments<br />
* Combatting smart cities, data brokers, and other privacy intrusive tools<br />
* Showcasing open source circumvention tools and encrypted communication tools, as well as protocols, and effective approaches <br />
* Brainstorming emerging technological challenges and trends in online surveillance and censorship, and collaborative problem solving<br />
<br />
* Challenges and updates in security education and training <br />
<br />
=== '''Alternative Infrastructure and Digital Sovereignty''' ===<br />
<br />
* Educational sessions focused on how to build decentralized, community-owned technologies and protocols.<br />
* Advice on hosting, potential tools, and common problems, and suggestion of open source tools.<br />
<br />
=== '''Emerging and Urgent Tech Issues: Disinformation, AI, Platform Accountability, Internet Blackouts, Etc.''' ===<br />
<br />
* Updates on current trends related to disinformation, platform accountability, and other tech-related emerging issues impacting rights defenders and journalists, prioritizing frontline experiences, and understanding impacts on democratic process and public trust (for example, during elections). <br />
* Information on current disinformation campaigns actions, and discussions on actions needed.<br />
* Developments in platform accountability work, current needs, and brainstorming cross-regional actions. <br />
* Best practices to navigate internet blackouts, particularly during milestone moments (elections, etc). <br />
* Best practices in information integrity, archiving, and defense tactics. Artificial Intelligence and automated decision-making as it relates to surveillance, censorship, equity and access. Algorithmic governance, discussions around how to ensure human rights principles are embedded into automated processes that inform, shape or make decisions that affect people, institutions and societies. especially in areas traditionally governed by human judgment, laws, or public institutions. (policing systems, etc). <br />
<br />
=== '''Civil Society Reflections on Tech Regulation and Global Implication''' ===<br />
<br />
* Updates on laws, governance frameworks, and regulatory approaches shaping digital rights, data protection and privacy, freedom of expression, Internet governance, etc.<br />
* SLAPPs and other legal or regulatory attacks on civil society; use and regulation of privacy, security, and encryption technologies<br />
* Regulatory, technical, and civic responses to emerging risks<br />
* Tech and policy regulations impacting globally, such as policies impacting decentralized open source technologies, or using circumvention technologies.<br />
<br />
== '''Villages''' ==<br />
Additionally, some of the Villages that we hope to host include the following. Reach out if your organization would like to partner to support a Village.<br />
<br />
* '''Spyware Response'''<br />
* '''Circumvention Tech Hub'''<br />
* '''VPN Community Village'''<br />
* '''Secure Communications'''<br />
* '''Org Sec Village'''<br />
* '''Ecosystem Resilience Salon'''<br />
* '''Alternative Infrastructure Builders'''<br />
* '''Regional Action Lab'''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55411Digital Rights Primer2026-01-16T10:14:16Z<p>Andrea: /* Security Vendors */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br />
<div style="display:flex; gap:12px; align-items:stretch; justify-content:space-between; flex-wrap:nowrap;"><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br><br><br />
<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
<br />
<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
As more and more issues arise at the intersection of technology and rights, the scope of digital rights work continues to grow.<br />
* Creating and maintaining technology solutions that enable users to circumvent online surveillance, censorship, and internet shutdowns.<br />
* Securing social movements, journalists, and human rights defenders through holistic digital and physical security training, risk assessments, and emergency incident response.<br />
* Advocacy efforts, including challenging draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption, anonymity tools, or technologies such as VPNs.<br />
* Policy engagement and strategic litigation aimed at reforming harmful legislation, promoting rights-respecting regulation, and defending individuals targeted for their use of digital tools.<br />
* Pushing for industry standards by engaging with technology companies and participating in international and multistakeholder bodies that oversee the technical infrastructure of the internet, with a focus on privacy and security by design.<br />
* Researching, documenting, and mapping emerging challenges such as the impacts of artificial intelligence, disinformation, biometric surveillance, and smart cities on human rights.<br />
* Building collective action and coalitions around issues such as platform accountability, content moderation practices, shadow banning, and algorithmic transparency.<br />
<br />
* Raising public awareness through media engagement, campaigns, and narrative work to strengthen understanding of digital rights among broader audiences.<br />
<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
[[File:2023+GG,+Tor.jpg|right|frameless|439x439px|link=File:2023_GG,_Tor.jpg]]<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
== '''Organizations and Projects''' ==<br />
<br />
Below are selected categories of organizations and projects, with examples provided for reference.<br />
<br />
=== '''Member Networks focused on Community and Capacity Building''' ===<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]<br />
<br />
=== '''Technology Tools and Organizations focused on Open-Source Circumvention, Encryption, Safety and Privacy''' ===<br />
* [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project]<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-the-guardian-project Guardian Technologies]<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-resilience-technologies Resilience Technologies]<br />
* [https://wire.com/en Wire]<br />
* [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo]<br />
* [https://www.globaleaks.org/ GlobaLeaks]<br />
* [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere]<br />
* [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenPGP]<br />
* [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard]<br />
* [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger]<br />
* [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ NoScript]<br />
* [https://tails.net/ Tails]<br />
* [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes OS]<br />
* [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS]<br />
* [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN]<br />
* [https://github.com/clostra/newnode NewNode]<br />
<br />
=== '''Network, Hardware, and ISP Providers''' ===<br />
* [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute]<br />
* [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost]<br />
<br />
=== '''International Human Rights Organizations''' ===<br />
* [https://www.article19.org/ ARTICLE 19]<br />
* [https://internews.org/ Internews]<br />
* [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Front Line Defenders]<br />
* [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
=== '''Rapid Response and Digital Security Networks''' ===<br />
* [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet]<br />
* [https://www.civicert.org/ CiviCERT]<br />
* [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience]<br />
* [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline]<br />
<br />
=== '''Journalism and Press Freedom Organizations''' ===<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/bcjb-getting-to-know-their-work-improving-journalistic-safety-in-the-us-mexico-border Border Center for Journalists and Bloggers (BCJB)]<br />
* [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation]<br />
* [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists]<br />
* [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International]<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-ifex IFEX]<br />
<br />
=== '''Regional and Issue-Focused Organizations and Networks''' ===<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais D3]<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-open-culture-foundation Open Culture Foundation]<br />
* [https://smex.org/ SMEX]<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-josa Jordan Open Source Association]<br />
* [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy]<br />
* [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC]<br />
* [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative]<br />
* [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA]<br />
* [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales]<br />
* [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo]<br />
* [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia]<br />
* [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation]<br />
* [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change]<br />
* [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs]<br />
* [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters]<br />
* [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth]<br />
* [https://defcon.org/ DEF CON]<br />
* [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club]<br />
* [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente]<br />
* [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa]<br />
* [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio]<br />
* [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundación Karisma]<br />
<br />
=== '''Research Organizations (Academic and Non-Academic)''' ===<br />
* [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-amnesty-tech-security-lab Amnesty International Security Lab]<br />
* [https://ooni.org/ OONI]<br />
* [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab]<br />
* [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork]<br />
* [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute]<br />
* [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House]<br />
* [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet Initiative]<br />
* [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center]<br />
* [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA]<br />
<br />
=== '''Policy Focused Organizations''' ===<br />
<br />
* [https://www.accessnow.org/ Access Now]<br />
* [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation]<br />
* [https://www.gp-digital.org/ Global Partners Digital (GPD)]<br />
* [https://www.openrightsgroup.org/ Open Rights Group (ORG)]<br />
<br />
=== '''Security Vendors''' ===<br />
* [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
----<big>While some of the following actors are '''not''' inherently pro–digital rights, some have played key roles in advancing privacy and security standards. All, however, shape global digital governance.</big><br />
<br />
==== '''Multistakeholder and Intergovernmental Bodies''' ====<br />
* [https://www.un.org/en/ United Nations]<br />
* [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum]<br />
* [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx International Telecommunication Union]<br />
* [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition]<br />
* [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force]<br />
* [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative]<br />
<br />
==== '''Companies''' ====<br />
* VPN providers: [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ TunnelBear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]<br />
* Social media platforms: [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter)<br />
* Large technology companies: [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/ Google]<br />
----<br />
<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are deeply passionate about this work for several reasons: the significant need for it—often within our own communities; the impact it can have—frequently global in scale; and the level of creativity and intellectual rigor required to address emerging challenges that sit at the forefront of the most urgent, next-generation issues affecting humankind. We are also drawn to the remarkable people in this field—individuals who are among the most thoughtful and systems-oriented thinkers anywhere. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== '''A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains''' ===<br />
As an emerging field, digital rights work comes with many of the growing pains commonly associated with startups and the nonprofit sector. Some important realities to keep in mind include: <br />
<br />
* Most digital rights organizations are small and less than ten years old.<br />
* Funding is often unstable. Many traditional funders remain hesitant to support what they perceive as a “technology” space, despite the increasing and diverse digital threats faced by movements, journalists, and everyday users.<br />
* There is no formalized career pathway. Many practitioners build expertise through a combination of self-study, proactive opportunity-seeking, and chance openings that align with their skills. As a result, many individuals become “unicorns,” possessing rare combinations of technical, policy, and organizational expertise.<br />
* Smaller organizations—which make up a large portion of the ecosystem—often require staff to wear multiple hats out of necessity. This can make it difficult to onboard new talent, scale operations, or hire effectively.<br />
<br />
'''<big>This is why community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed — they help onboard new talent and communities, strengthen peer learning, and grow the field sustainably.</big>''' <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have affected a large majority of digital rights organizations worldwide. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we expect that most opportunities will continue to concentrate in technical roles (such as developers and systems administrators) or development roles (including fundraising and partnership development)<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
[[File:GG 2023, a person trying a virtual reality device.png|thumb|442x442px]]<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]], bringing unprecedented opportunities for communication, access to information, and innovation. At the same time, this period marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. These developments led early observers to recognize that fundamental rights and freedoms needed protection in the digital realm, just as they do in the physical world.<br />
<br />
In its earliest stages, the digital rights movement was largely driven by technologists—particularly those involved in open-source communities. These communities were also central to adjacent movements such as Internet Freedom and Free Culture. Technologists were among the first to witness the emergence of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations, which highlighted the urgent need to protect personal information and freedom of expression online.<br />
<br />
Many early digital rights advocates emerged from hacker and technical communities, such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] covering digital rights and related issues including freedom of information and expression. These communities played a crucial role in promoting public awareness around security, emphasizing the importance of understanding vulnerabilities in order to protect against emerging threats.<br />
<br />
Over time, technologists—often directly or indirectly connected to these early communities—led the development of “circumvention tools”: technologies designed to bypass surveillance, censorship, and information controls.<br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|right|frameless|528x528px]]<br />
By the early 2000s, more social justice–oriented organizations began engaging with digital rights, as communities around the world increasingly experienced repression online. A significant milestone came in 2001, when the [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter] often described as an early “Internet Bill of Rights.” This effort helped bring traditional human rights organizations into digital rights debates. APC was particularly well positioned to do so, having been a pioneer in the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) within civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these developments, digital rights and the societal impacts of technology remained opaque to much of the general public and many non-technologists. Moreover, due to its origins in technical communities, the digital rights field inherited some of the same structural challenges found in the technology sector—most notably a lack of diversity and equity, high barriers to entry, and limited safe and inclusive spaces for marginalized groups.<br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, the digital rights field began to grow and professionalize, driven in part by significant government funding—mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]—directed toward Internet Freedom initiatives. A substantial portion of this funding supported open-source technologies, with code that was publicly accessible and licensed to promote reuse and collaboration. The underlying belief was that the free flow of information online could strengthen democratic societies by enabling accountability, innovation, creativity, and civic participation.<br />
<br />
This influx of funding was also a response to the accelerating spread of online surveillance and censorship worldwide—a trend that has continued to intensify. Authoritarian actors increasingly invested in technologies designed to control, monitor, and repress digital communications.<br />
<br />
Around the same time, authoritarian regimes began to more fully recognize the political power of digital technologies. In some cases, this realization followed mass mobilizations enabled by digital tools, such as during the Arab Spring. In others, it led to deliberate investments in surveillance infrastructure and information control. While some regimes were late adopters, others moved early. China, for example, began developing what would become the Great Firewall in the late 1990s, establishing one of the most extensive systems of internet censorship and control in the world. <br />
<br />
== Growth, Diversification, and Today’s Challenges ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|thumb|555x555px]]<br />
By around 2012, the digital rights community began making more intentional efforts to grow and diversify for two key reasons:<br />
<br />
* To ensure that a wider range of voices and lived experiences shaped the priorities, strategies, and standards of Internet Freedom and digital rights work. Many circumvention tools developed in the Global North were proving ineffective—or even unsafe—for at-risk users in the Global South.<br />
* To meet growing demand, as more communities worldwide experienced digital rights violations, particularly related to surveillance and censorship.<br />
<br />
Since then, digital rights networks have emerged in nearly every region of the world. This expansion reflects both the increasing number of actors using digital means to repress and attack movements, civil society organizations, journalists, and individuals, and the rapid evolution of the tactics they employ.<br />
<br />
By 2023, digital rights challenges extended well beyond traditional surveillance and censorship to include internet shutdowns, spyware, online harassment, disinformation campaigns, biometric surveillance, and other emerging threats. Much of this escalation is driven by the growing coordination among repressive actors, who increasingly share knowledge, legislative templates, tactics, and technological resources across borders.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55326Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T12:14:29Z<p>Andrea: /* History: How Did Digital Rights Start? */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
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Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
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Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
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[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
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=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
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This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
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[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
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TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
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=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
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● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
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● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
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● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
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The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
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This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
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<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
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Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
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=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
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In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
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Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
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== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
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Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
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Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
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It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
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However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
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=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
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Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
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This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
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=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
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=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
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The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
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== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
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Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
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As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
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==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
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Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
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Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
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==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
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Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
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What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
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This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
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As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
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=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
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'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
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== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet and pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
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However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
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=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
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* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
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* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
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* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
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* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
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* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
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* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
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* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
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* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
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* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do for many reasons including: The significant need there is for it —many times in our own personal communities; for the impact it has —which many times is global in scale; and for the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges — which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed — they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspect most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, acted as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US-backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they began to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diversify the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation was part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital means to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. As well as the growing evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55325Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T12:12:15Z<p>Andrea: /* History: How Did Digital Rights Start? */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="display:flex; gap:12px; align-items:stretch; justify-content:space-between; flex-wrap:nowrap;"><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br><br><br />
<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
<br />
<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet and pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do for many reasons including: The significant need there is for it —many times in our own personal communities; for the impact it has —which many times is global in scale; and for the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges — which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed — they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspect most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, acted as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US-backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they began to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55324Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T12:07:45Z<p>Andrea: /* A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="display:flex; gap:12px; align-items:stretch; justify-content:space-between; flex-wrap:nowrap;"><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br><br><br />
<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
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However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
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=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
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Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
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This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
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=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
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</div><br />
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=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
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The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
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== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
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Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
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As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
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==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
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Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
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Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
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==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
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Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
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What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
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This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
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As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
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=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
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</div><br />
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<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet and pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
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However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
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* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
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* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
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* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
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* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
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* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
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* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
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* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
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* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
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* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
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* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
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* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do for many reasons including: The significant need there is for it —many times in our own personal communities; for the impact it has —which many times is global in scale; and for the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges — which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed — they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
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Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspect most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
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For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
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However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
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By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
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*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
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In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
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'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55323Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T12:02:09Z<p>Andrea: clarified the sentence grammatically</p>
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== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
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''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
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''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
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Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
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Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
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[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
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=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
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This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
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[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
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[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
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TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
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=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
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● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
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● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
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● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
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The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
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This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
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<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
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Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
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=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
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In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
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Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
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== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
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Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
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Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
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However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
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=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
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== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
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As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
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==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
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Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
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Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
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==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
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=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
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== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet and pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do for many reasons including: The significant need there is for it —many times in our own personal communities; for the impact it has —which many times is global in scale; and for the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges — which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55322Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:53:40Z<p>Andrea: /* The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="display:flex; gap:12px; align-items:stretch; justify-content:space-between; flex-wrap:nowrap;"><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br><br><br />
<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
<br />
<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight.]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within the geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given that it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
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'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
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<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55321Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:49:36Z<p>Andrea: /* The Cultural Challenges */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
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<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
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● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
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● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
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● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
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The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
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This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
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<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
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Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
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=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
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In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
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Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
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== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
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Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
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Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
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It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
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However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
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=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
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Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
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This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
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=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
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=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer actively in open source projects. <br />
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The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
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== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
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Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
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As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
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==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
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Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
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Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
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==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
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Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
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What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
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This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
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As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
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=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
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'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
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== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
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However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
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=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
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* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
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* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
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* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
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* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
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* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
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* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
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* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
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* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
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* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
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* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
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* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
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=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
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=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
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*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55320Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:48:19Z<p>Andrea: /* The Cultural Values */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
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== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
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Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
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[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
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=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
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=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
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● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allows communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation. </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer to be active in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
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'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
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</div><br />
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<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
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* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
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* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55319Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:43:06Z<p>Andrea: /* Influencing How Technology is Shaped and the Culture is Made Security-Conscious */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
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<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
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<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
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<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and How the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community — it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions. <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allow communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer to be active in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55318Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:35:03Z<p>Andrea: </p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
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[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
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<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|Canaries in the coal mine.|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for broader society as tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Additionally, many open source technologists build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community - it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
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<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allow communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer to be active in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
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<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55317Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:30:14Z<p>Andrea: /* The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community */</p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
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== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
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<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
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=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
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<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice made up of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in this article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|canaries in the coal mine|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for all of society worldwide - Tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
.<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Meanwhile, many open source technologist build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community - it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
<br />
<div style=" display:grid; gap:12px; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit, minmax(clamp(160px, 23%, 240px), 1fr)); align-items:start;"><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allow communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer to be active in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
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'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
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'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
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'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
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'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
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'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
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'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
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'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
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'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55316Digital Rights Primer2026-01-14T11:28:42Z<p>Andrea: </p>
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<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digital rights community of practice.png|alt=digital rights community of practice|thumb|467x467px|''The digital rights primer covers the field and global community of people working at the intersection of rights and technology. ]]<br />
''<big>This primer is based on our experience and point-of-view of having worked as community conveners in the digital rights space for more than 12+ years.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>It is designed for people new to the <u>digital rights field</u>, as well as adjacent practitioners—journalists, activists, technologists, funders, and policymakers—who want a grounded understanding of the community of practice working to addressing digital rights issues.</big>'' <br />
<br />
''<big>For a better understanding of digital rights as a</big>'' ''<big>rights</big>'' ''<big>concept, we strongly recommend the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] primer.</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
== '''✊🏽 First, A Quick Introduction to Digital Rights''' ==<br />
[[File:Technology is political.png|left|frameless|293x293px|Technology is political]]<div style="max-width:75%; margin:24px auto; padding-left:18px; border-left:4px solid #000; font-size:1.35em; font-style:italic; line-height:1.45;"><br />
Digital rights matter because they determine who gets to participate safely in society — and who is silenced.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks and threats such as surveillance, censorship, and disinformation. As technologies evolve, so does the list of problems negatively impacting societies. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. <br />
<br />
[[File:Marginalized Communities Impacted.png|alt=Marginalized Communities Impacted|416x416px|thumb|Marginalized communities experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. ]]<br />
<br />
=== 🫶 A Fight to Protect the Most Vulnerable and Marginalized ===<br />
The fight for digital rights affects everyone, but it weighs heavily on the most vulnerable communities around the globe. This is because technology is not neutral. The design of platforms, algorithms, and data systems reflects existing power structures, and those without power often pay the highest price.<br />
<br />
This includes marginalized and vulnerable groups such as women, LGBTQI+ people, ethnic, religious and racial minorities, individuals with disabilities, and children, as well as those standing up to power, such as journalists and civil society actors. These groups are disproportionately surveilled, censored, and targeted online. <br><br><br />
</big>''<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;"><br />
[[File:Policies.png|left|frameless|143x143px|protect your communities]]'''<big>Additional Resources on Digital Rights Issues</big>''' <br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights What are Digital Rights] a more robust explanation of the issues.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] how and why bad faith actors target civil society.<br />
<br />
[https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], an intro of the basis.<br />
</div><br />
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<div style="flex:1 1 0; padding:15px; background:#FFF4CC; border:2px solid #FFD203; border-radius:20px;">[[File:GG (2).png|border|left|frameless|140x140px]]'''<big>How to Get Involved And Learn More About Digital Rights</big>'''<br />
<br />
TCU's [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter Digital Rights Newsletter] delivers a weekly curated roundup of essential digital rights news, funding and job opportunities, community updates, upcoming events, and learning resources. This includes updates on TCU's workshops, monthly digital rights town hall meetups, and more! <br />
</div><br />
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<br><br><br />
<br />
=='''The Emerging Community of Practice: The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|545x545px|thumb|The Digital Rights Community is a global community of practice of diverse practitioners working at the intersection of technology and rights.]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that works at the intersection of rights and technology, and work collaboratively on issues such as: <br />
<br />
● Holistic digital security and protection of civil society; <br />
<br />
● Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br />
<br />
● Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others. <br />
<br />
The field brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and experiences from around the world. <br />
<br />
This includes profiles such as movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, and many others. (We have a longer list of profiles further down in the article). <br />
<br />
<big>'''The digital rights community is global and interdisciplinary because digital rights challenges are transnational and complex in scope, and require transnational solutions.'''</big><br />
<br />
Ss digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community of practice. However, in recent years, historic funding cuts to the field, increased regional instability, and rising exhaustion related to years of difficult work in low resourced environments, where often people's own safety is at risk, has lead to a historic brain drain. This poses a significant risk to the future of human rights and social justice worldwide, given the steep learning curve required to enter the field, and the combination of skills needed to be effective. <br />
<br />
=== Vulnerable and Targeted Communities Are the Leading Experts on Digital Rights Threats ===<br />
[[File:Canaries in the coal mine.png|alt=canaries in the coal mine|thumb|269x269px|canaries in the coal mine|left]]<br />
The digital rights community includes a high proportion of people from historically marginalized and vulnerable groups, precisely because these communities experience the most acute and persistent attacks on their digital rights. Their lived experience on the frontlines of surveillance, censorship, harassment, and repression makes them uniquely qualified subject-matter experts on understanding the tactics and methods used by adversaries. <br />
<br />
In many ways, they act as early indicators of future threats for all of society worldwide - Tools and tactics are often tested on these communities first before being scaled to the wider public. Moreover, adversaries and authoritarian regimes routinely share and refine these tactics across borders, meaning that methods used against one marginalized group today in one country often become the blueprint for targeting broader populations tomorrow in other countries. <br />
<br />
Marginalized and vulnerable groups that are usually targeted include religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves.<br />
<br />
.<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''The Cultural Values and Challenges Inherited from Hacker and FLOSS Spaces''' ==<br />
[[File:Hackers.png|alt=hackers|thumb|It is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]], or ethically motivated to help. ]]<br />
The digital rights field has its origins in two separate but interconnected communities: open-source and free/libre open-source software (FLOSS) technologists, and hacker spaces. As both architects and builders of technology, they were the first to identify how digital systems could be exploited—by corporations, governments, and other powerful actors—to surveil, censor, discriminate against, or otherwise harm individuals and communities. <br />
<br />
Their early warnings were shaped not by theory alone, but by hands-on experience designing, breaking, and stress-testing technologies in real-world conditions. <br />
<br />
Hacker communities have long understood that privacy, security, and anonymity are not optional features, but essential safeguards in a digitally mediated world. As a result, it is not uncommon to find technologists in the digital rights field who identify as [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] and/or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]] —individuals who use hacking or other digital tactics as a form of political or social activism. <br />
<br />
It is important to note, however, that not all hackers or open-source technologists are concerned with digital rights or motivated by the public interest; like any community, these spaces encompass a wide range of profiles. For example, [[wikipedia:Black_hat_(computer_security)|black hat hackers]] violate laws and ethical standards for nefarious purposes such as cybercrime or cyberwarfare. <br />
<br />
However, many of the hackers active in the digital rights space see their work as an extension of their values or activism, and understand how technology impacts rights. Meanwhile, many open source technologist build tools for the common good. <br />
<br />
=== Influencing How Technology is Shaped and the Culture is Made Security-Conscious ===<br />
[[File:TOR logo.png|left|thumb|320x320px|Tor is widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy.]]<br />
This lineage also helps explain why Internet Freedom was a concept embraced by the digital rights community - it was clear early on that an open, interoperable, and globally accessible network was essential to protecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to organize and participate in public life. <br />
<br />
Internet freedom emerged as a framework that connected technical design choices with human rights outcomes, emphasizing that the structure of the internet itself could either enable or constrain fundamental freedoms. <br />
<br />
This same lineage explains why tools developed and/or championed by these communities—such as the Tor Project—have played a foundational role in shaping the digital rights ecosystem. Tor is not only widely recognized as one of the most robust and interference-resistant public-interest tools for anonymity and privacy; through its research and development, it has influenced an entire generation of privacy-preserving technologies, threat models, and security practices. Its design principles reflect values central to the digital rights movement: decentralization, resilience against censorship, and protection for users operating in hostile or high-risk conditions <br />
<br />
=== The Cultural Values ===<br />
Together, hackers and FLOSS technologists have helped define both the technical and some of the ethical foundations of digital rights work. Their contributions continue to inform how civil society responds to emerging threats—from mass surveillance and internet shutdowns to AI-enabled repression—ensuring that the field remains grounded in practical, user-centered, and rights-respecting approaches to technology. Values include: <br />
<br />
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<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Decentralized vs. Centralized Community Models'''<br />
Just as distributed technologies are more resilient and secure, so are decentralized communities. By distributing leadership, trust, and knowledge across interconnected nodes, single points of failure are reduced. This allow communities to endure even when parts of the network are disrupted.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Transparency and Verifiability'''<br><br>Open-source tech is more secure because vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed by many, rather than hidden behind secrecy. These principles extend to communities: transparency builds shared understanding, while verifiability allows people to independently confirm information —strengthening trust through evidence, not blind faith<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF;; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Freedom and Autonomy'''<br><br>Freedom in technology means preserving user agency—ensuring people can understand, choose, and adapt the tools they rely on, rather than being constrained by opaque or coercive systems that may conceal harmful functions. Technology should empower users, not lock them into closed systems they cannot inspect, control, or modify. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Privacy by Design'''<br><br>Privacy is a fundamental right and should be a core design principle of any technology. Tools should minimize invasive data collection and retention, limit unnecessary data retention, and supporting anonymity. For journalists and rights defenders, it allows for the ability to communicate, organize, and participate in public life safely and without fear of retaliation </div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing'''<br><br>Open collaboration, peer review, and shared learning are prioritized over competition or siloed expertise. Meaningful progress happens through collective effort, where knowledge is openly exchanged and diverse perspectives are actively included, strengthening both solutions and the communities that build them.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Resisting Abuse of Power'''<br><br>Systems that centralize power and enable harm must be questioned, audited, and challenged. People should be free to communicate, organize, and share information —without surveillance, coercion, or interference. <br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:1px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:8px; padding:10px; background:#F3E8FF; box-sizing:border-box;"><br>'''Serving the Public Good'''<br><br>Technology should improve the human condition and serve the common good. In the digital rights context, this means building and sustaining tools, infrastructure, and support systems that enable journalists, human rights defenders, and communities to safely inform, organize, and serve their societies. <br><br />
</div><br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== '''The Cultural Challenges''' ===<br />
This lineage has introduced a number of structural and cultural challenges within the digital rights field, particularly related to equity. This is not surprising, given that open-source and hacker communities have historically exhibited lower levels of representation than the broader technology sector because of both structural problems and lack of resources. As an example, most for-private tech companies have human resource departments. Meanwhile, individuals from marginalized groups have less time to volunteer to be active in open source projects. <br />
<br />
The good news is that these challenges have been increasingly recognized and actively addressed over the past decade, though the work remains ongoing. Within this context, Team CommUNITY’s efforts have played a critical role in supporting the growth of the field in more equitable and inclusive ways, while also helping to shift norms toward healthier, more sustainable community cultures. If you would like to learn more about this history and the work underway, we invite you to reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community.<br />
<br />
== '''The Human Rights Field and Multilateral Government Entities''' ==<br />
[[File:United Nations.png|alt=The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight|thumb|426x426px|The United Nations plays a critical role in digital rights fight]]<br />
Digital rights is now firmly situated within the broader human rights field, even as it continues to function as an evolving area of practice. Over the past decade, multilateral institutions and intergovernmental bodies have played an increasingly influential role in shaping how digital rights are defined, interpreted, and governed at the global and regional level. <br />
<br />
Entities such as the United Nations have progressively recognized that human rights obligations extend to online spaces, digital infrastructures, and emerging technologies. This recognition is reflected in UN resolutions on internet access and online freedom of expression, the work of Special Rapporteurs, and growing attention to issues such as digital surveillance, biometric technologies, artificial intelligence, and cross-border data flows.<br />
<br />
As a result, digital rights advocacy frequently involves engaging multilateral institutions to translate established human rights standards into technology-mediated contexts, and to ensure that global digital policy processes are grounded in human dignity, equity, and accountability.<br />
<br />
==== '''Rise of Digital Warfare''' ====<br />
As digital technologies increasingly mediate civic participation, access to information, public services, and democratic processes, governments have expanded their use of digital tools within national security, defense, and foreign policy agendas. In this context, states act simultaneously as protectors of rights and as central actors in practices that place those rights at risk.<br />
<br />
Governments are increasingly engaging in forms of digital warfare, including cyber operations, information manipulation, mass surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the deployment of digital technologies in armed conflict and political repression. These practices intensify longstanding tensions between state power and the protection of fundamental rights, positioning digital rights squarely within geopolitical struggle.<br />
<br />
Unlike many traditional human rights domains, digital rights work is shaped by rapid technological change, cross-border digital infrastructures, and the growing influence of private technology companies. This environment requires ongoing adaptation, as defenders respond to both state and non-state abuses while navigating complex international power dynamics.<br />
<br />
==== '''This Results in An Usual and Radically Diverse Ecosystem''' ====<br />
[[File:Radically diverse community.png|alt=radically diverse community|left|thumb|460x460px]]<br />
For people entering the digital rights space, the field can feel disorienting at first given the it draws together an unusually diverse set of actors. <br />
<br />
Unlike more established rights or movement spaces—where shared values, language, and organizing traditions are often well defined—digital rights brings together a wide mix of actors who do not always share the same political frameworks, cultural references, or professional norms. These individuals come from different regions, ideological backgrounds, and lived experiences, and may hold differing views on power, governance, and strategy. <br />
<br />
What unites them is not a single worldview, but a shared commitment to protecting people from harm in increasingly digital societies.<br />
<br />
This diversity enables creative, cross-disciplinary responses to complex challenges, while also introducing friction, disagreement, and competing approaches to power and governance.<br />
<br />
As a result, effective digital rights work requires more than traditional advocacy skills. It depends on the ability to translate across technical and non-technical communities, build coalitions across difference, and develop shared ethical frameworks within a rapidly evolving global field. For digital rights defenders, the work is therefore not only about confronting external threats such as surveillance, censorship, or digital warfare, but also about cultivating trust, shared norms, and collective responsibility within the community itself.<br />
<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to fully capture the expanding range of issues addressed by the digital rights community. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in society, governance, and everyday life, the risks and harms associated with them continue to grow and evolve. To date, however, most digital rights challenges can be broadly grouped into the following areas<div style="<br />
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<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance'''<br><br> <br />
Censorship and surveillance have grown increasingly sophisticated as state and non-state actors refine tools used to repress expression, silence journalists and communities, and close civic space. Alongside technical measures, non-technical tactics—such as online harassment and transnational repression—are widely used. More recently, there has been a sharp rise in the deployment of advanced spyware by authoritarian governments.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Protection of Civil Society, Journalists, and Defenders'''<br><br> <br />
Civil society actors, journalists, and human rights defenders face persistent digital threats, including hacking, surveillance, and targeted attacks. This work includes the development and promotion of trustworthy open-source privacy and security tools (such as Tor and Signal), alongside protective practices, capacity building, and incident response.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Artificial Intelligence, Disinformation, and Emerging Technologies'''<br><br> <br />
The rapid expansion of AI and automated systems has introduced new risks, including algorithmic bias, opaque decision-making, and large-scale disinformation. These challenges intersect with internet policy, governance, and the growing environmental and climate impacts of digital technologies.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Infrastructure Ownership and Design'''<br><br> <br />
Who owns and controls digital infrastructure has profound implications for rights and access. This includes advocacy for decentralized, independent, and community-owned infrastructure—such as mesh networks—that prioritize resilience, autonomy, and local governance.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Network Interference and Information Manipulation'''<br><br> <br />
Network interference ranges from internet shutdowns and throttling to computational propaganda and coordinated disinformation campaigns. These practices may be carried out by human actors, automated systems, or AI, and are often used to manipulate public discourse or suppress dissent.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Legal Persecution and Judicial Harassment'''<br><br> <br />
Governments increasingly criminalize online behavior, including the use of encryption or digital expression. There has also been a rise in Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), used to intimidate, silence, exhaust, or financially drain those speaking out on matters of public interest.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Internet Governance and Global Norm-Setting'''<br><br> <br />
Digital rights defenders work to protect the integrity of global internet governance processes, resisting coordinated attacks on encryption, opposing extreme data sovereignty regimes, and shaping international norms that keep the internet interoperable and rights-respecting.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Platform Power and Corporate Accountability'''<br><br> <br />
A small number of technology companies exert outsized influence over speech, labor, markets, and democratic processes. This includes work on antitrust, platform accountability, content governance, labor rights in the gig economy, and resisting the privatization of public digital spaces.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Data Extraction and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Many communities—particularly in the Global Majority—are subjected to large-scale data extraction without meaningful consent, benefit, or accountability. This includes biometric systems, digital ID programs, health data collection, and AI training datasets.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Identity-Based and Targeted Digital Harm'''<br><br> <br />
Digital harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities and include doxxing, non-consensual intimate imagery, deepfakes, coordinated harassment, and technology-facilitated intimate partner violence.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Labor and Exploitation'''<br><br> <br />
Digital economies rely on invisible and precarious labor, including content moderators, data labelers, gig workers, and platform-dependent creators. These workers often face poor labor protections, psychological harm, and algorithmic control.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Digital Divide and Disability Justice'''<br><br> <br />
Persistent digital divides limit who can safely and meaningfully access the internet. Barriers related to disability, language, geography, gender, income, and literacy exclude many communities from digital participation.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Knowledge Control, Archives, and Cultural Erasure'''<br><br> <br />
Platform governance and algorithmic visibility shape whose histories and struggles remain visible online. Archives, journalism, and cultural memory—especially from marginalized communities—are increasingly vulnerable to erasure.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border:2px solid #4CC0FD; border-radius:14px; padding:16px; background:#EDF8FE;"><br />
'''Cross-Border and Transnational Repression'''<br><br> <br />
Digital tools enable governments to target critics beyond their borders through spyware, harassment, legal threats, and coercion of family members, leaving many defenders without effective legal protection.<br />
</div><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ==<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights? Things You Should Know'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55077Digital Rights Primer2025-12-15T09:50:57Z<p>Andrea: I think 144+ is such a specific number but you are referring generally to how many digital rights members there are so...best to be broad I think.</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsprimer.png|thumb|248x248px|''This primer provides a great intro to the field for individuals and organizations working on technology and human rights.'']]<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks: surveillance, censorship, disinformation, and the exclusion of marginalized communities. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. It covers issues from online surveillance and censorship to dis/misinformation, internet governance and AI ethics. As we can imagine, the list of problems and societal threats grows longer each year as technology becomes more prevalent in our lives and bad actors invest more resources in weaponizing it against the public. <br />
<br />
=== '''The Emerging Community of Practice''' ===<br />
However, ''Digital Rights'' is a term that also encompasses the emerging community of practice that actively addresses the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights different challenges arising at the intersection of human rights, technology and social justice]. <br />
<br />
=== '''Before you Begin ....''' ===<br />
We encourage you to check out our article [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights "What are Digital Rights"] to get an overview of those issues. We also encourage you to check out [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] article, which lists how and why bad faith actors target civil society, and also [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], which provides an introduction into the basis of all digital security work. <br />
<br />
In this piece, we are focusing on Digital Rights as a community of practice. <br />
<br />
=='''The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|right|frameless|502x502px]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds and professions from around the world, who work together to protect and promote various rights in the digital realm. They are made up of movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, among others. As digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community. <br />
<br />
=== A Large Percentage of Vulnerable Groups Make up the Community ===<br />
The community has a high percentage of folks that identify as coming from vulnerable groups, precisely because these groups experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. This includes religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves. <br />
<br />
As such, vulnerable groups are subject experts in digital rights because of their lived experience, and serve as canaries in the coal mine - tactics and tools are tested on them before they are applied to the rest of the population. <br />
<br />
In addition, there is a large representation of technologists and security experts, particularly those that are active in open source communities, and/or social movements. For this reason, you will find many folks that identify as either [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]], or are technologists that are active in social movements.<br />
=='''How to Get Involved in the Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Newsletter Team CommUNITY's logo.png|left|91x91px]]<br />
Keeping yourself informed about the digital rights issues around the world is a great start. The good news: each week [https://www.digitalrights.community/home Team CommUNITY (TCU)] rounds up the most noteworthy digital rights headlines, as well as funding and job opportunities, community news, upcoming events, educational materials and much more in the [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter TCU Weekly Digital Rights Newsletter]. <br />
<br />
[[File:Calendar of events.png|left|95x95px]]<br />
Another good way to get involved is to attend meetups and workshops. Not only can you learn about diverse topics, but you get to engage with individuals and organizations that are active in the community. Check out our [https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Calendar_of_Events Calendar of Events], for up-coming community building activities hosted by TCU. In addition, in our newsletter we have a list of upcoming digital rights events hosted by diverse organizations throughout the world.<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to list the growing number of issues and challenges addressed by the digital rights community because as technology use grows in our societies, so do the problems associated with it. However, to-date, most problems can be categorized under the following buckets:<br />
<br />
* '''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance:''' Two challenges that continue to become more sophisticated as adversaries improve the tools and tactics they use repress and silence groups and journalists, and close civil society spaces. Notably, non-technical tactics are also used, such as online harassment and transnational repression. Most recently, we are also seeing an increase of sophisticated spyware used by authoritarian governments on the local, regional, and national level. <br><br><br />
* '''Protection of Civil Society and Journalists:''' Especially relating to the cybersecurity issues and attacks they face. This includes designing both trustworthy open source privacy and security tools (Tor and Signal being the most known), as well as tactics. <br><br><br />
* '''Community-focused approaches to issues like''' AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech; among others.<br><br><br />
* '''Infrastructure Ownership & Design:''' This includes advocating for and advancing the creation of independent infrastructures, such as mesh networks, that are community owned and driven.<br><br><br />
* '''Network Interference:''' This can include Internet shutdowns to computation or information propaganda, such as disinformation, done either by humans or artificial intelligence.<br><br><br />
* '''Legal Persecution:''' In the last few years, we have seen an increase in laws that criminalize online behaviors, used to persecute people. For example, using encryption technology, or online expression.<br><br><br />
* '''Governance:''' Attempts to sway international norms, and standards governing how the Internet functions and connects globally, for example, coordinated attacks on encryption, or advancing extreme national data sovereignty laws.<br><br><br />
<br />
=== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ===<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
[[File:Fundraising opps icon.png|left|frameless|48x48px]]<br />
<big>'''Did you know that Team CommUNITY keeps a live list of [[Fundraising Opportunities|funding opportunities]]'''</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights?'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== Our Values ===<br />
However, as a community we believe in transparency and critical thinking, and its important to highlight the characteristics and problems inherent to this field - its the only way to actually overcome them. <br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Digital_Rights_Primer&diff=55076Digital Rights Primer2025-12-15T09:47:11Z<p>Andrea: /* Before you Begin .... */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__ <br />
== '''Digital Rights Community & Field Primer''' ==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsprimer.png|thumb|248x248px|''This primer provides a great intro to the field for individuals and organizations working on technology and human rights.'']]<br />
Digital technologies shape nearly every part of our lives — from how we communicate and work, to how governments deliver services and corporations handle our data. With these opportunities come risks: surveillance, censorship, disinformation, and the exclusion of marginalized communities. <br />
<br />
Digital rights are the extension of human rights into the online and technological sphere. They ensure that the freedoms we hold offline — freedom of expression, privacy, assembly, and access to information — are also protected in the digital age. It covers issues from online surveillance and censorship to dis/misinformation, internet governance and AI ethics. As we can imagine, the list of problems and societal threats grows longer each year as technology becomes more prevalent in our lives and bad actors invest more resources in weaponizing it against the public. <br />
<br />
=== '''The Emerging Community of Practice''' ===<br />
However, ''Digital Rights'' is a term that also encompasses the emerging community of practice that actively addresses the [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights different challenges arising at the intersection of human rights, technology and social justice]. <br />
<br />
=== '''Before you Begin ....''' ===<br />
We encourage you to check out our article [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-are-digital-rights "What are Digital Rights"] to get an overview of those issues. We also encourage you to check out [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-a-targeted-attack What are Targeted Attacks] article, which lists how and why bad faith actors target civil society, and also [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/what-is-digital-literacy What is Digital Literacy and Why It Matters], which provides an introduction into the basis of all digital security work. <br />
<br />
In this piece, we are focusing on Digital Rights as a community of practice. <br />
<br />
=='''The Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Digitalrightsdefenders.png|right|frameless|502x502px]]<br />
The ''Digital Rights Community'' is a global community of practice that brings together representatives of diverse backgrounds, professions, and 144+ countries, who work together to protect and promote various rights in the digital realm. They are made up of movement leaders, technologists, security experts, civil society organization employees, journalists, researchers, policymakers, and policy advocates, among others. As digital rights issues grow, so does the need to attract new talent to the community. <br />
<br />
=== A Large Percentage of Vulnerable Groups Make up the Community ===<br />
The community has a high percentage of folks that identify as coming from vulnerable groups, precisely because these groups experience the most acute attacks against their digital rights. This includes religious and ethnic minorities from the Global Majority, BIPOC from the Global North, and LGBTQ+ and women from around the world, particularly in places where it may be illegal to be themselves. <br />
<br />
As such, vulnerable groups are subject experts in digital rights because of their lived experience, and serve as canaries in the coal mine - tactics and tools are tested on them before they are applied to the rest of the population. <br />
<br />
In addition, there is a large representation of technologists and security experts, particularly those that are active in open source communities, and/or social movements. For this reason, you will find many folks that identify as either [[wikipedia:White_hat_(computer_security)|white hat hackers]] or [[wikipedia:Hacktivism|hacktivists]], or are technologists that are active in social movements.<br />
=='''How to Get Involved in the Digital Rights Community'''==<br />
[[File:Newsletter Team CommUNITY's logo.png|left|91x91px]]<br />
Keeping yourself informed about the digital rights issues around the world is a great start. The good news: each week [https://www.digitalrights.community/home Team CommUNITY (TCU)] rounds up the most noteworthy digital rights headlines, as well as funding and job opportunities, community news, upcoming events, educational materials and much more in the [https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter TCU Weekly Digital Rights Newsletter]. <br />
<br />
[[File:Calendar of events.png|left|95x95px]]<br />
Another good way to get involved is to attend meetups and workshops. Not only can you learn about diverse topics, but you get to engage with individuals and organizations that are active in the community. Check out our [https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Calendar_of_Events Calendar of Events], for up-coming community building activities hosted by TCU. In addition, in our newsletter we have a list of upcoming digital rights events hosted by diverse organizations throughout the world.<br />
=='''The Growing List of Digital Rights Challenges'''==<br />
It is impossible to list the growing number of issues and challenges addressed by the digital rights community because as technology use grows in our societies, so do the problems associated with it. However, to-date, most problems can be categorized under the following buckets:<br />
<br />
* '''Countering Online Censorship and Surveillance:''' Two challenges that continue to become more sophisticated as adversaries improve the tools and tactics they use repress and silence groups and journalists, and close civil society spaces. Notably, non-technical tactics are also used, such as online harassment and transnational repression. Most recently, we are also seeing an increase of sophisticated spyware used by authoritarian governments on the local, regional, and national level. <br><br><br />
* '''Protection of Civil Society and Journalists:''' Especially relating to the cybersecurity issues and attacks they face. This includes designing both trustworthy open source privacy and security tools (Tor and Signal being the most known), as well as tactics. <br><br><br />
* '''Community-focused approaches to issues like''' AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech; among others.<br><br><br />
* '''Infrastructure Ownership & Design:''' This includes advocating for and advancing the creation of independent infrastructures, such as mesh networks, that are community owned and driven.<br><br><br />
* '''Network Interference:''' This can include Internet shutdowns to computation or information propaganda, such as disinformation, done either by humans or artificial intelligence.<br><br><br />
* '''Legal Persecution:''' In the last few years, we have seen an increase in laws that criminalize online behaviors, used to persecute people. For example, using encryption technology, or online expression.<br><br><br />
* '''Governance:''' Attempts to sway international norms, and standards governing how the Internet functions and connects globally, for example, coordinated attacks on encryption, or advancing extreme national data sovereignty laws.<br><br><br />
<br />
=== <big>'''Samples of work conducted by Digital Rights Defenders:'''</big> ===<br />
* Creating technology solutions that allow users to circumvent online surveillance and censorship.<br />
* Securing movements and journalists through holistic and digital security training.<br />
*Advocacy, for example fighting draconian laws that penalize the use of encryption or tools like VPNs.<br />
*Pushing for industry standards. For example, advocating in international government bodies overseeing the actual infrastructure of the Internet, pushing for systems to encourage the privacy and security of users.<br />
*Researching and mapping emerging challenges, such as the impact of AI, disinformation, and smart cities.<br />
* Creating collective action around issues like platform accountability, or issues like shadow banning.<br />
<br />
However, as more and more issues arise at the intersection of human rights and technology, the list of work becomes longer for digital rights.<br />
<br />
=='''The Organizations/Projects'''==<br />
The list is long and diverse, but below we are including some categories and examples for your understanding:<br />
<br />
* '''Community Building/Capacity Building/Member Network Projects:''' Like us ([https://www.digitalrights.community/ Team CommUNITY]); [https://globalvoices.org/ GlobalVoices;] <br />
* '''Open source technology circumvention, encryption or safety/security tools.''' Examples: [https://www.torproject.org/ Tor Project], [https://signal.org/ Signal], [https://wire.com/en Wire], [https://guardianproject.info/apps/circulo/ Circulo], [https://getoutline.org/ Outline VPN], [https://www.globaleaks.org/ Globaleaks], [https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere HTTPS Everywhere], [https://www.openpgp.org/ OpenGPG], [https://www.gnupg.org/ GNU Privacy Guard], [https://privacybadger.org/ Privacy Badger], [https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/noscript/ No Script], [https://www.startpage.com/ StartPage], [https://tails.net/ Tails], [https://www.qubes-os.org/ Qubes], [https://www.tahoe-lafs.org/trac/tahoe-lafs Tahoe-LAFS], [https://amnezia.org/en Amnezia VPN], [https://github.com/clostra/newnode New Node]<br />
<br />
* '''Network, hardware and ISP providers.''' Examples: [https://www.calyxinstitute.org/ Calyx Institute], [https://greenhost.net/ Greenhost] .<br />
<br />
* '''Security vendors.''' Examples: [https://www.cloudflare.com/ Cloudflare], [https://www.radicalsecurity.io/ Radical Security]<br />
<br />
* '''Traditional international human rights organizations.''' Examples: [https://www.article19.org/ Article19], [https://internews.org/ Internews], [https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en Frontline Defenders], [https://crd.org/ Civil Rights Defenders]<br />
<br />
* '''Global rapid response or security networks.''' Examples: [https://www.rarenet.org/ Rarenet], [https://www.civicert.org/ Civicert], [https://digiresilience.org/ Center for Digital Resilience], [https://www.accessnow.org/help/ Access Now’s Digital Security Helpline] .<br />
<br />
* '''Digital safety and holistic security training guides and curricula.''' Examples: [https://securityinabox.org/en/ SiaB], [https://level-up.cc/ LevelUP], [https://safetag.org/ SAFETAG], [https://totem-project.org/ Totem], [https://securityplanner.consumerreports.org/ Security Planner] .<br />
<br />
* '''Journalism organizations.''' Examples: [https://freedom.press/ Freedom of the Press Foundation], [https://cpj.org/ Committee to Protect Journalists], [https://ddosecrets.com/ Distributed Denial of Secrets], [https://www.pen-international.org/ PEN International] .<br />
<br />
* '''Regional or sub-group focused organizations and networks.''' Examples: [https://smex.org/ SMEX], [https://pollicy.org/ Pollicy], [https://socialtic.org/ SocialTIC], [https://paradigmhq.org/ Paradigm Initiative], [https://cipesa.org/ CIPESA,] [https://www.derechosdigitales.org/ Derechos Digitales], [https://conexo.org/en/home/ Conexo], [https://engagemedia.org/ EngageMedia], [https://ocf.tw/en/ Open Culture Foundation], [https://itforchange.net/ IT for Change], [https://www.equalitylabs.org/ Equality Labs], [https://twitter.com/ubunteam Ubunteam], [https://safesisters.org/ Safe Sisters], [https://www.eff.org/ Electronic Frontier Foundation], [https://hope.net/ Hackers on Planet Earth], [https://defcon.org/ Defcon], [https://www.ccc.de/en/ Chaos Computer Club], [https://veinteligente.org/ Venezuela Inteligente], [https://digitalsociety.africa/ Digital Society of Africa], [https://noisradio.co/ Nois Radio], [https://web.karisma.org.co/ Fundacion Karisma] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse types of research groups including academic and non-academic.''' Examples: [https://ooni.org/ OONI], [https://citizenlab.ca/ Citizen Lab], [https://fair.work/en/fw/homepage/ Fairwork], [https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ Oxford Internet Institute], [https://freedomhouse.org/ Freedom House], [https://opennet.net/ OpenNet], [https://cyber.harvard.edu/ Berkman Klein Center], [https://ioda.inetintel.cc.gatech.edu/ IODA] .<br />
<br />
* '''Multilateral governmental entities and companies.''' Some of the following actors aren’t pro-digital rights, while others have been pioneers in setting important privacy and security standards. However, all have played an important part in discussions .<br />
** '''''Multistakeholder and/or Multilateral Government Entities:''''' [https://www.intgovforum.org/en Internet Governance Forum], [https://www.itu.int/en/about/Pages/default.aspx United Nations International Telecommunications Union], [https://freedomonlinecoalition.com/ Freedom Online Coalition], [https://www.ietf.org/ Internet Engineering Task Force], [https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/ Global Network Initiative] .<br />
** '''''Companies:''''' VPN providers like [https://www.tunnelbear.com/ Tunnelbear], [https://mullvad.net/en Mullvad]. Social media platforms like [https://about.meta.com/ Meta], [https://about.twitter.com/en X] (formerly Twitter). Multifaceted companies like [https://www.apple.com/ Apple], [https://about.google/?fg=1&utm_source=google-CA&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hp-header Google] .<br />
<br />
* '''Diverse funders.''' Examples: [https://numun.fund/ Numun Fund], [https://www.opentech.fund/ Open Tech Fund], [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-civilian-security-democracy-and-human-rights/bureau-of-democracy-human-rights-and-labor/ DRL State Department], [https://www.fordfoundation.org/ Ford Foundation], [https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/ Mozilla Foundation], [https://hivos.org/ Hivos]<br />
----<br />
[[File:Fundraising opps icon.png|left|frameless|48x48px]]<br />
<big>'''Did you know that Team CommUNITY keeps a live list of [[Fundraising Opportunities|funding opportunities]]'''</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
=='''The Profiles'''==<br />
Digital Rights Defenders come from all regions, disciplines, and backgrounds. They work on different aspects of digital rights, but ultimately are trying to protect and advocate for activists, journalists, and civil societies from attacks and risks. Here are some common profiles we see: <br />
*Movement Leaders<br />
*Journalists & Media Workers<br />
*Community Organizers<br />
*Security Professionals<br />
*Digital Security Trainers<br />
*Software Developers<br />
*Tool Makers (UX, designers, etc.)<br />
*System Administration and Network Experts<br />
* Academic Researchers<br />
*Community Researchers<br />
*Policy Advocates<br />
*Policymakers<br />
*Technologists that come in different shapes, sizes, and skill sets. For example, one can be a technologist who focuses on analyzing the impact tech has on society.<br />
*Diverse professionals working at different types of civil society organizations including grassroots organizations, and large international NGOs.<br />
=='''Want to Work In Digital Rights?'''==<br />
For many of us working in digital rights, we are passionate about the work we do - the significant need there is for it, many times in our own personal communities, for the impact it has, which many times is global in scale, and the amount of creativity and intellectual capital needed to address emerging challenges, which are representative of the most urgent and next-generation issues affecting humankind. In addition, the number of unique and interesting individuals attracted to this work, who truly are some of the best system thinkers found on earth. <br />
[[File:Digital Rights Job Board.png|thumb|321x321px|Check out our [https://www.digitalrights.community/job-board Digital Rights Job Board], which gets updated with opportunities on a weekly basis! ]]<br />
<br />
=== Our Values ===<br />
However, as a community we believe in transparency and critical thinking, and its important to highlight the characteristics and problems inherent to this field - its the only way to actually overcome them. <br />
<br />
=== A Young, Emerging Community Experiencing Growing Pains ===<br />
As digital rights is an emerging field, digital rights defenders have to navigate many of the growing pains associated with startups and common challenges found in the nonprofit sector. Things to keep in mind: <br />
<br />
*Most digital rights organizations are small and less than 10 years in age.<br><br><br />
*Funding is not stable, and most traditional funders are still scared of funding in what they consider a technology area, despite movements, journalists, and citizens experiencing more diverse attacks against their digital rights.<br><br><br />
*There is no formalized career path, and many individuals achieve expertise in the field through a combination of self study, actively seeking opportunities, and sheer luck that employment roles open up that fit their profiles. Also, many individuals are “unicorns<nowiki>''</nowiki> making it difficult to onboard new talent. For example, in many smaller organizations, which make up a large chunk of entities in the space, people wear multiple hats out of necessity. This means that organizational leaders sometimes face difficulties scaling up or hiring effectively.<br><br><br />
'''This is one of the reasons community engagement projects like Team CommUNITY are so needed - they help onboard new talent and communities.''' <br />
<br />
Sometimes there are pathways through program management roles (for example at medium to large nonprofits), or through more specialized expertise in specific sub-fields (for example, researchers at universities focusing on security). <br />
<br />
In 2025, severe funding cuts have impacted a large majority of organizations in the space across the globe. Until this funding crisis is resolved, we suspected most opportunities will fall within the technical realm (developer, sys admin, etc) or development realm (fundraising, partnership development etc).<br />
<br />
=='''History: How Did Digital Rights Start?'''==<br />
Digital Rights evolved alongside the growth of technology and the Internet. The [[wikipedia:History_of_the_Internet|massification of the Internet began in the 90’s]]. While this brought incredible improvements, it also marked the rise of online surveillance, censorship, and the privatization of digital resources. Around this time, people started to recognize the importance of protecting various rights and freedoms in the digital realm, similar to those in the physical world.<br />
<br />
For the most part, in the early days, most people that instigated this movement were part of technology groups, particularly open source technology communities, which were also core to movements like Internet Freedom and Free Culture. This is because they were also the first to see the rise of cyber threats, data breaches, and privacy violations that showcased the need for protecting personal information online. <br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, many of the earliest people addressing digital rights challenges, were technologists that were part of communities such as the [[wikipedia:2600:_The_Hacker_Quarterly|2600 hacker group, which published a popular magazine]] that covered digital rights issues, or adjacent issues such as freedom of information and expression and speech. They also played a key role in promoting security awareness among the public, and emphasized the importance of understanding security vulnerabilities to protect against potential threats. <br />
<br />
Since then, many technologists, directly or indirectly associated with these groups, have played a leading role in creating “circumvention tools,” which are technology tools that circumvent surveillance and censorship. <br />
<br />
'''<big>The 2000's and Now</big>'''<br />
<br />
By the early 2000’s we also began to see the involvement of more social justice oriented groups, as more communities throughout the world began to experience oppression online. Notably, in 2001, [https://www.apc.org/en/pubs/about-apc/apc-internet-rights-charter the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) published the Internet Rights charter], which served as an Internet Bill of Rights, which served as a catalyst to introduce human rights groups into the discussion. APC was well situated for this, given that it was considered a pioneer in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for civil society.<br />
<br />
Despite these efforts, however, digital rights continued and the impact of technology on societies continued to be enigmatic for the general public and non-technologists. In addition, precisely because of its origin story, the digital rights field itself also began inheriting many of the internal challenges found in the technology field: lack of diversity and equity, a high barrier to entry, and few safe and secure spaces for minority groups. <br />
<br />
In the early 2010s, we began to see the digital rights field begin to grow and professionalize as new and significant government money was being injected into Internet Freedom, mostly [https://2009-2017.state.gov/secretary/20092013clinton/rm/2010/01/135519.htm coming from the US]. A large percentage of this money was directed to funding open source technology tools, which means the code was open for all to see and licensed under a copyleft license. The motivation behind this was to promote the free flow and access to information online, which the US government saw as the foundation of stronger democratic societies as they felt it helped citizens hold their government accountable, generate new ideas, and encourage creativity and entrepreneurship. <br />
<br />
However, the availability of this new US backed funding was also in reaction to the rise in online surveillance and censorship across the world, which has only worsened throughout the years. This is because authoritarian actors have continued to increase their investment into weaponizing technology to be a tool of oppression. <br />
<br />
Alternatively, around this same time, we also begin to see more and more authoritarian adversaries begin to “discover” digital. Either because of the powerful mobilization capacity it provides their citizens (Arab Spring) or because they begin to invest in tactics and strategies that allow them to weaponize the Internet and digital communications. However, some authoritarian regimes were early adopters. China, for example, began to develop their Great Firewall in the late 1990s, which represented extensive censorship and internet control measures. <br />
<br />
By 2012, the digital rights community began work to grow and diverse the community for two main reasons: <br />
<br />
*Ensuring diverse representation were part of strategic conversations influencing the shape and priorities of Internet Freedom, digital rights, and technology standards. Most circumvention tools and strategies being created by technologists in the “North” were not working for at-risk users in the “South”.<br />
*More and more groups around the world were starting to directly experience digital rights issues, mostly related to surveillance and censorship. This meant more talent was needed to meet demand.<br />
<br />
Since then, the digital rights community has grown to have networks in virtually every region and (sometimes) country in the world. This also reflects the growing number of bad actors that are using digital to oppress and attack a significant growing list of movements, civil society organizations, journalists and citizens. In addition, the evolution of tactics and strategies they are using. <br />
<br />
In 2023, for example, common problems, on top of historical surveillance and censorship, include [https://www.accessnow.org/publication/internet-shutdowns-in-2023-mid-year-update/ Internet shutdowns], online harassment, disinformation, and biometrics, among others. Much of this evolution is because adversaries have begun to share knowledge, repressive legislative templates, tactics, and resources amongst themselves.<br />
<br />
'''''Please contact us at team@digitalrights.community if you have any feedback about our Digital Rights Primer.'''''</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal&diff=55075Navigating Portugal2025-12-15T09:40:55Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Ggbanner2026.png|frameless|center|2000px|alt=Gathering defenders at the intersection of technology and rights]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:14px; margin:10px 0 18px 24px; background:#E9F7F3; border:3px solid #6ED7D9; border-radius:10px; box-shadow:0 2px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);"><br />
<ul style="margin:10px 0 0 18px;"><br />
<li>[[Visa and Security Support]]</li><br />
<li>[[Equity Fund]]</li><br />
<li>[[Hotels and Transportation|Hotels and Transportation Options]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Estoril]]</li><br />
<li>[[Navigating Portugal]]</li><br />
<li>[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]</li><br />
</ul><br />
</div><br />
<br />
__TOC__<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
[[File:Portugal Map.png|alt=Portugal Map|left|thumb|Portugal Map]]<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. <br />
<br />
The country is known for its beautiful beaches, big wave surfing, tiled buildings, and vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
'''''Dive into [[Portugal’s 20th-century history]] to better understand its history.'''''<br />
<br />
In recent years the country has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
=== '''Quick Facts''' ===<br />
* The country regularly ranks among the [https://www.portugalglobal.pt/en/news/2024/may/portugal-ranks-7th-in-global-peace-index-2024/#:~:text=Peace%20Index%202024-,09/07/2024,few%20internal%20or%20external%20conflicts. safest] in the world. <br />
* It was the first European country to [https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p08v4850/what-happened-after-this-country-decriminalised-all-drugs- decriminalize drug use,] and it is often cited as a public health success. <br />
* Portugal has strong [[wikipedia:LGBTQ_rights_in_Portugal|LGBTQ+ protections]], including legal same-sex marriage, adoption rights, comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, and a self-determination process that allows trans people to change their legal gender without medical requirements.<br />
* We encourage you to consult [https://freedomhouse.org/country/portugal/freedom-world/2025 Freedom House Portugal country card]. <br />
..<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais|left]]In 2024 we interviewed D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais for our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series]. Led by president Ricardo Lafuente, D3 has become a key voice on issues such as mass metadata collection, public video surveillance, weak GDPR enforcement, and the social impacts of tech-driven policies like the Digital Nomad visa. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shared that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
.<br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
=== Ordering Food to Your Home 🏡 ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== Ordering Coffee & Beer ===<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</small>''|638x638px]]<br />
==== '''Coffee ☕''' ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch; max-width:100%;"><br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable" background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #FFD203;"<br />
|-<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" | '''Bica/Café:''' Espresso (less water)<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Meia de Leite:''' Flat White<br />
|-<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso (more water)<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%"|'''Cappuccino'''<br />
|-<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Abatanado:''' Americano (less water)<br />
|-<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Galão:''' Latte<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Americano'''<br />
|-<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC;" |<br />
| style="background:#FFF4CC; width:50%" |'''Mocha'''<br />
|}<br />
</div><br />
<br />
==== '''Beer 🍻''' ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch; max-width:100%;"><br />
{| class="wikitable" style="min-width:520px; background:#FFF4CC; border:1px solid #FFD203;"<br />
|-+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|-<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|}<br />
</div><br />
<br />
=== Misc ===<br />
<br />
* Dinner usually runs from 17:00 to 18:00.<br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink 🍱 ===<br />
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch; max-width:100%; margin:12px 0;"><br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; background:#EAFBF4; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Tasca.png|alt=Tasca|thumb|241x241px|'''<big>Tasca</big>''']]'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br><br>A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:GalinhaAfricana.jpg|alt=GalinhaAfricana|241x241px|thumb|'''<big>Galinha Africana</big>''']]'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br><br>UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony) <br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Cafe a brasiliera.png|alt=Cafe A Brasileira|thumb|241x241px|'''<big>Cafe A Brasileira</big>''']]'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries.Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries.<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Pastéis de Nata.png|thumb|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>'''|241x241px]]'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>'''<br />
Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Landeau Chocolate Cake.png|alt=Landeau Chocolate Cake|thumb|242x242px|'''<big>Landeau Chocolate Cake</big>''']]'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears.Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears.<br />
<br />
* [https://www.landeau.pt/ Landeau Chocolate]<br />
* [https://garrettestoril.pt/menu/contactos Pasterleria Garrett]<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Pastéis de Bacalhau.png|alt=Pastéis de Bacalhau|thumb|241x241px|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''']]'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>'''<br />
You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions.You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. <br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Sardinaricas.png|alt=Grilled Sardines|thumb|227x227px|'''Grilled Sardines''']]'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>'''<br />
Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines.<br />
|-<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:12px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #8EE6C0;" | [[File:Caldo Verde.png|alt=Caldo Verde|thumb|222x222px|'''Caldo Verde''']]'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup, a hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. The soup originated in the Minho Province in norther Portugal around the 15th century. <br />
|}<br />
</div><br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
<br />
<div style="clear:both;"></div><br />
----<br />
<div style="overflow-x:auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling:touch; max-width:100%; margin:12px 0;"><br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; table-layout:fixed; background:#E7F6D5; <br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
| style="width:85%; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars.<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic. <br />
<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisingly Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br><br>'''How to Get there:'''<br><br>'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. <br />
<br />
We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Castle of São Jorge</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods.<br><br>'''How to Get there:'''<br><br> '''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros<br />
<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
| Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am.<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br><br>'''Website:''' <nowiki>https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/</nowiki><br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
<br />
|<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city.<br />
<br />
'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
'''Website''': https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
<br />
|'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
'''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00<br />
The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''Website''': https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br><br>'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br><br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
| style="width:30%; min-width:160px; vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;"|'''<big>LX Factory</big>'''<br />
| style="vertical-align:top; padding:14px; background:#E7F6D5; border:1px solid #c0e590;" |<br />
LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros<br />
|}<br />
</div></div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54615Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-13T11:17:12Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
[[File:512px-25 de Abril Ponte.jpg|alt=April 25th Bridge|thumb|441x441px|Lisbon's iconic bridge is the Ponte 25 de Abril. Attribution: Leila Borges, CC BY-SA 4.0 ]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, big wave surfing, tiled buildings, and vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled for more than forty years by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] in the 60's and early 70's during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]] between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of brutal colonial rule. The war worsened the already poor economic situation in Portugal and led many Portuguese to leave the country for economic opportunities or to avoid forced conscription. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences its large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has led to a cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years the country has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
In 2024 we interviewed D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais for our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series]. Led by president Ricardo Lafuente, D3 has become a key voice on issues such as mass metadata collection, public video surveillance, weak GDPR enforcement, and the social impacts of tech-driven policies like the Digital Nomad visa. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shared that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=File:512px-25_de_Abril_Ponte.jpg&diff=54614File:512px-25 de Abril Ponte.jpg2025-12-13T11:06:20Z<p>Andrea: Leila Borges, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons</p>
<hr />
<div>== Summary ==<br />
Leila Borges, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54613Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-13T11:01:12Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
[[File:Rooster of Barcelos .png|alt=rooster of Barcelos|thumb|''The rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol, drawn from a legend of mysticism and justice.''|441x441px]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, big wave surfing, tiled buildings, and vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled for more than forty years by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] in the 60's and early 70's during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]] between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of brutal colonial rule. The war worsened the already poor economic situation in Portugal and led many Portuguese to leave the country for economic opportunities or to avoid forced conscription. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences its large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has led to a cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years the country has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
One of these organizations is D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais, a member-based organizations that we covered in our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series] in 2024. Current president Ricardo Lafuente shared that founding members really wanted to make a difference, not just create a group to feel validated. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shares that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54612Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-12T17:30:57Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
[[File:Rooster of Barcelos .png|alt=rooster of Barcelos|thumb|''The rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol, drawn from a legend of mysticism and justice.''|441x441px]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, year-long surf, tiled cities, and vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]], started in 1961, between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of repressive Portuguese colonial rule. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences its large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has led to a cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years the country has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
One of these organizations is D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais, a member-based organizations that we covered in our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series] in 2024. Current president Ricardo Lafuente shared that founding members really wanted to make a difference, not just create a group to feel validated. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shares that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54611Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-12T17:29:09Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
[[File:Rooster of Barcelos .png|alt=rooster of Barcelos|thumb|''The rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol, drawn from a legend of mysticism and justice.''|441x441px]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, year-long surf, tiled cities, and vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]], started in 1961, between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of repressive Portuguese colonial rule. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences the large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has produced a fascinating cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years it has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
One of these organizations is D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais, a member-based organizations that we covered in our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series] in 2024. Current president Ricardo Lafuente shared that founding members really wanted to make a difference, not just create a group to feel validated. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shares that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54610Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-12T17:26:10Z<p>Andrea: /* Special Things to Eat and Drink */</p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
[[File:Rooster of Barcelos .png|alt=rooster of Barcelos|thumb|''The rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol, drawn from a legend of mysticism and justice.''|441x441px]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, year-long surf, tiled cities, vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]], started in 1961, between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of repressive Portuguese colonial rule. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences the large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has produced a fascinating cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years it has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
One of these organizations is D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais, a member-based organizations that we covered in our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series] in 2024. Current president Ricardo Lafuente shared that founding members really wanted to make a difference, not just create a group to feel validated. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shares that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cakes, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing says Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Portugal:_Culture,_Useful_Phrases,_Day_Trips,_and_the_Digital_Rights_Ecosystem&diff=54609Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem2025-12-12T17:25:17Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
[[File:Rooster of Barcelos .png|alt=rooster of Barcelos|thumb|''The rooster of Barcelos is a national symbol, drawn from a legend of mysticism and justice.''|441x441px]]<br />
<br />
== '''Portugal''' ==<br />
Portugal’s culture reflects a unique blend of influences, shaped by the Atlantic coast and its close ties with Mediterranean traditions. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, year-long surf, tiled cities, vibrant food scene. <br />
<br />
Starting in 1933, Portugal was ruled by a right-wing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. Social unrest, economic stagnation, and political repression led to massive rates of emigration. This was [[wikipedia:Carnation_Revolution#:~:text=In%201973%20the%20UN%20General,same%20rank%20as%20academy%20graduates.|especially true]] during the [[wikipedia:Portuguese_Colonial_War|13-year war]], started in 1961, between Portugal and armed liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau which aimed to overthrow years of repressive Portuguese colonial rule. <br />
<br />
During this time, mounting dissatisfaction among the military and the population culminated in the Carnation Revolution on April 25, 1974, a military coup that quickly gained popular support. The revolution led to the fall of the dictatorship, the establishment of a democratic government, and significant social and political reforms. April 25th still holds special significance in Portugal, and many Portuguese take to the streets every year carrying red carnations which have become a symbol of the revolution. <br />
<br />
Emigration continues to shape both national identity and influences the large Portuguese communities abroad. This history of mobility, combined with Portugal’s deep connections to regions with shared language and cultural ties, has produced a fascinating cultural blending that is visible in the country’s music, food, and everyday life. <br />
<br />
In recent years it has been grappling with a severe housing crisis, marked by soaring rents, rapidly rising property prices, and limited affordable supply, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. <br />
<br />
[[File:D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais.png|left|thumb|373x373px|D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais]]<br />
<br />
== '''Digital Rights in Portugal''' ==<br />
The digital rights community in Portugal is small but delivers impact well beyond its size. The ecosystem is made up of brilliant folks from diverse backgrounds who are activists at heart. Here at TCU, we have been humbled with the intelligence, commitment, and passion we have found in the digital rights space.<br />
<br />
One of these organizations is D3 - Defesa dos Direitos Digitais, a member-based organizations that we covered in our [https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-d3-defesa-dos-direitos-digitais Community Series] in 2024. Current president Ricardo Lafuente shared that founding members really wanted to make a difference, not just create a group to feel validated. <br />
<br />
At the time of the interview in December 2024, Ricardo shares that the biggest digital rights challenges in Portugal were public video surveillance; the lack of enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); and “infrastructure technology poverty and outsourcing". Since 2007 the country has privatized their public goods while lacking adequate funding for scientific research. <br />
<br />
He notes that current policies, including the digital nomad visas, have done little to elevate local tech efforts or the working class. Instead, these policies have created a housing crisis, as foreign investment reshapes the real estate market. Additionally, current policies create a context where startups that move to Portugal, only stay for a limited time, design products for for audiences abroad, and then leave the country with their developments. Learn more about [https://www.direitosdigitais.pt/ D3 - Defensa dos Direitos Digitais' work here]. <br />
<br />
== '''Useful Tips''' ==<br />
[[File:BePortugal coffee image.jpg|thumb|''<small><big>Attribution: https://www.beportugal.com/portuguese-coffee/</big></small>''|621x621px]]<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Food to Your Home 🍱🏡</big> ===<br />
If you are interested ordering food to your hotel/home, use can use the following apps: <br />
<br />
* [https://glovoapp.com/ Glovo] <br />
<br />
* [https://bolt.eu/en/food/ Bolt Food].<br />
<br />
=== <big>Ordering Coffee & Beer '''☕ 🍻'''</big> ===<br />
<br />
==== Coffee ====<br />
There are many different ways to order a coffee. Some common ones are: <br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Bica/Cafe:''' Espresso <br />
|'''Cheio:''' Full Espresso <br />
|'''Pingado:''' Macchiato<br />
|-<br />
|'''Meia de Leitte:''' Cafe au Lait <br />
|'''Galao:''' Latte <br />
|'''Abatanado:''' An Americano with less water<br />
|-<br />
|'''Americano''' <br />
|'''Capuccino''' <br />
| '''Mocha'''<br />
|} <br />
==== Beer ====<br />
Much like ordering a coffee, there are a number of ways to order beer in Portugal. If you order “uma cerveja” you will likely be asked if you want a pint or a bottle. Here are some tips so you can get the beer you want.<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''Imperial:''' Small draft beer<br />
|'''Caneca:''' Large draft beer<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
=== Special Things to Eat and Drink ===<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Tasca Meal</big>'''<br />
|A Tascas is a typical Portuguese restaurant serving classic, home-style dishes. They tend to be family-run eateries offering hearty meals at affordable prices, in a cozy, unpretentious, homey environment. This includes soups and stews, grilled sardines, codfish, and more. Tasca's usually have daily specials, and generous portions.<br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Asian-Portuguese Fusion</big>'''<br />
|Lisbon’s large Asian communities have created vibrant fusion dishes. In fact, UNESCO recognizes [[wikipedia:Macanese_cuisine|Macanese cuisine]] as the world's first "fusion" cuisine, which has been influenced by Chinese (especially Cantonese), and European (especially Portuguese) cuisines, as well as from Southeast Asia and other parts of the Lusophone world. (Macau was a former Portuguese colony). <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Lusophone Restaurants</big>'''<br />
|Whether its Brazilian barbecue, or Angolan Moamba de Galinha, you will find amazing restaurants from diverse lusophone countries. <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Nata</big>''' <br />
|Crispy, flaky pastry shells filled with a warm, creamy egg custard and baked until the tops are caramelized. Usually enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.<br />
|[[File:Torre e pastel de Belém.jpg|left|frameless]]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Chocolate Cake</big>'''<br />
|Portugal is famous for having one of the world's best chocolate cake, which is flourless, dense, and silky. You can find this in numerous establishments, but the most famous vendor is Landeau Chocolate. HOWEVER, we highly recommend the bakery Pastelaria Garrett, only a few steps from venue. Their chocolate crunch cake left most of us in tears. <br />
|<br />
* [https://www.landeau.pt/ Landeau Chocolate]<br />
* [https://garrettestoril.pt/menu/contactos Pasterleria Garrett]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pão de Deus (Bread of God)</big>'''<br />
|A soft brioche topped with coconut—often eaten as a breakfast sandwich with butter, cheese, or even ham. <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Pastéis de Bacalhau</big>''' <br />
|You will see shops selling cod fritters all over. They are made from salted cod, potatoes, parsley, eggs and onions. <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Sardinhas Assadas</big>''' <br />
|Fresh grilled sardines are a favorite, and enjoyed simply with flaky salt and lemon squeezed on them. Additionally, make sure to try some of Portugal's canned sardines. <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Caldo Verde</big>'''<br />
|Nothing say Portugal more than their Caldo Verde soup. A hearty soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage. <br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Frango Piri-Piri</big>'''<br />
|Another popular favorite is grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri sauce.<br />
|<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
== '''Day Trips From Estoril 🏰''' ==<br />
[[File:Estoril landscape.png|alt=estoril landscape|right|frameless|243x243px]]<br />
<big>Lisboa has several Tourism Information Centers and an [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/p/useful-information official website with useful information] like the weather, how to get tickets for the public transportation, things to see and do and other details.</big><br />
<br />
<big>If you have free time during the Global Gathering, you can check the [https://www.freetour.com/lisbon?from=2023-09-10&to=2023-09-30&lang=english Free Tours] happening in Lisbon. The main language is English but you can find tours in Spanish, French, Italian, German and other languages</big>.<br />
----<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|+<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Beach Day in Estoril</big>'''<br />
|Many easily accessible beaches run along the coast from Estoril to Cascais. The closest beaches are Praia da Poça and Praia do Tamariz - both only a 15-minute walk from the venue. They are also home to incredible restaurants and bars. <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Bicycle from Cascais to Guincho Beach (and maybe take a surfing lesson)</big>'''<br />
|Praia do Guincho is a beautiful Atlantic-facing beach famous for both surfing and kite surfing. Its striking, natural, and dramatic beauty is worth the visit. Getting there via bike is just as beautiful, with incredible views of the ocean You will take the N247 coastal road, that starts in front of the Hotel Vila Galé in Cascais. Don't worry, you can't get lost, because the road ends in Guincho beach. The bike ride, which is 10km long, will take you about 1 hour round trip. On it you will pass landmarks like the Farol do Guia lighthouse, the São Jorge de Oitavos fort and the fortaleza do Guincho. Note: there are no businesses on this road - its pretty natural and rustic.<br />
[https://mobi.cascais.pt/geral/quiosques-mobicascais You can rent city bicycles through the Cascais cycling program.] Prices are cheaper but don’t expect high quality bikes. Identification is needed to rent the bicycles. *For faster, lighter bicycles search for private bike rentals in Cascais. <br />
<br />
Note, there are limited amenities in Guincho, with only a handful of restaurants. However, we encourage to checkout the numerous surfing schools based there, and maybe take a class - just be careful, the ocean there is wild and has strong currents. <br />
*Moana Surf School - <nowiki>http://www.moanasurfschool.com/</nowiki> <br />
*Shaka Surf School - <nowiki>https://www.shaka.pt/</nowiki><br />
*Vasco da Gama Surf Academy - <nowiki>https://www.vascodagamasurf.com/</nowiki><br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' You can take either bus 1629 or 1630 in Estoril. Both take less than hour.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-40 Euros, depending on the time of day.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Magical Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site</big>'''<br />
|Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns, tucked into lush green hills, where palaces, castles, and fairytale gardens. It has also been associated with mysticism, esotericism, and occult symbolism. Not surprisngly, Its underground tunnels, inverted towers, and Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, have been a magnet for poets, mystics, and occultist. This has given Sintra a mysterious, otherworldly reputation. Make sure to visit its imposing castle that has sweeping views of the Atlantic. Sintra’s cool microclimate and romantic architecture is a sharp contrast to Estoril’s coastal calm.<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Day Trip to Belém</big>'''<br />
|Belém is a historic waterfront district in western Lisbon known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and some of Portugal’s most iconic cultural sites. Its also a birthplace for the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata. Interesting landmarks in the area. Make sure to checkout [https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/jeronimos-monastery Jerónimos Monastery], the [https://museus.ulisboa.pt/jardim-botanico-tropical Tropical Botanical Gardens], and [https://pasteisdebelem.pt/ Pastéis de Belém]<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril to the Belém train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Enjoy a Fado Concert</big>'''<br />
|Fado music is usually performed with a Portuguese guitar, and a Fado singer. The music is often identified by its rich, melancholy melodies. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Mouraria are still famous for their fado houses where you can watch a show. We recommend [https://famadalfama.pt/ Fama d’Alfama] or [https://mesadefrades.pt/ Mesa de Frades] Most fado houses offer dinner. However, if you only watch a show, arrive for the late viewing at 23:00h - most fado houses stay open until 2:00h We also recommend visiting the [https://www.museudofado.pt/en Fado Museum]<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Castle of Sao Jorge</big>'''<br />
|The Castle of Sao Jorge sits in the center of the Lisbon. Classified as a National Monument in 1910, it offers wonderful views of the city and the Tagus River. Also, explore the surrounding historic Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. <br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from Estoril train station to Cais do Sodre train station. Transfer from the train line to the green metro line and get off at Rossio. From Rossio, it's about an 18-minute walk uphill to the castle. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Fábrica Braço de Prata</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' R. Fábrica de Material de Guerra 1, 1950-128 Lisboa<br />
https://www.fabricabracodeprata.com/<br />
|Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old ammunition factory that has been converted into a cultural center in the Marvila neighborhood of Lisbon. From Tuesday to Sunday, this event space houses several concerts, art exhibits, and literary events in every room of the building. You can buy a ticket to enter the factory and wander from room to room for 10 Euros. On any given night, you can see 2-3 concerts. There is also a restaurant/bar and a bookstore that stays open until 1 am<br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Directly outside of the station, you will find the bus stop for the 781 bus. Take the 781 bus in front of the Cais do Sodre train station directly to the Poço Bispo stop. Note: Late in the evening it is difficult to take public transportation from Fabrica back to Cascais.<br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-25 Euros<br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Estufa Fria Greenhouse</big>'''<br />
'''Address:''' Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal<br />
<br />
https://estufafria.lisboa.pt/<br />
|'''Hours:''' Tuesday - Sunday, from 10:00am - 19:00pm<br />
<br />
'''Tickets:''' 3.50 euros<br />
<br />
The Estufa Fria is a beautiful 1.5-hectare botanical garden in Eduardo VII Park. The greenhouse boasts 300 different species of plants from all over the world. It is a perfect place to be in nature without leaving the city. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Cais do Sodre train station. Change trains to the Blue Line until Marquês de Pombal. From there it is a 12-minute walk north through the park. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and its Gardens</big>'''<br />
https://gulbenkian.pt/museu/en/collection/discover-the-collection/<br />
|<br />
*'''Open:''' 10:00 to 18:00 and closed on Tuesdays<br />
* '''Tickets:''' 10 Euros. Free on Sundays after 14:00The museum, located in Lisbon, showcases a large collection gathered by the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, ranging from classical antiquities to European and Asian fine arts. <br />
<br />
The surrounding Gulbenkian Gardens offer a serene urban oasis—lush, modernist-designed landscapes with ponds, winding paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. <br />
<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
<br />
'''Public Transportation:''' The two closest metro stations to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are São Sebastião (blue and red lines) and Praça de Espanha (blue line). <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|-<br />
|'''<big>Visit LX Factory Market</big>'''<br />
https://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/<br />
|LX Factory is a historic industrial complex that has been converted into more than 50 shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. On Sundays, there is an additional outdoor market where you can find clothes, food, jewelry, and more.<br />
'''How to Get there:''' <br />
'''Public Transportation:''' Take the train from the Estoril train station to the Alcantara Mar train station. LX factory is a 12 minute walk from the train station. <br />
<br />
'''Taxi:''' From Estoril, a taxi will cost around 20-35 Euros <br />
|}</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Visa_and_Security_Support&diff=54601Visa and Security Support2025-12-12T12:56:12Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br /><br />
</div><br />
= Updates =<br />
''<big>This page has all the information you need regarding obtaining a visa for the Global Gathering, security and safety advice, and contact information for the GG staff, should you need customized support.</big>'' <br />
<br />
* Starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries planning on entering Europe for a short-term stay will have to apply for '''[https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-etias_en ETIAS Travel Authorization]'''. Please familiarize yourself with ETIAS protocols to determine if they will apply to you. More information about ETIAS Travel Authorization is listed below.<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|right|frameless|321x321px]]<br />
<br />
= Applying for a Schengen Visa =<br />
Depending on the passport that you hold, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa through a Portuguese consulate or visa center in your country of residence. Please be sure to apply for a visa appointment as soon as possible as many consulates and embassies have a large back log. <br />
<br />
Team CommUNITY staff is here to help you through the visa application process and provide support. You can reach us at '''visa@digitalrights.community.'''<br />
<br />
'''<big>To start the process:</big>'''<br />
<br />
# Determine [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/general-information/who-needs-a-visa#list-of-nationalities-who-must-be-in-possession-of-a-visa if you need to apply for a Schengen visa] to travel to Portugal; <br><br />
# [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/required-documentation/short-stay-visa Review the documents you will need for your visa application] (Please note that this is a list of generally required documents. Be sure to check with your specific embassy or consulate for a list of necessary documents as well); <br></big><br />
# Request a visa appointment through [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/general-information/where-should-you-lodge-a-visa-application#countries-a-to-f the local consulate or embassy processing visas to visit Portugal]. <br></big><br />
# If needed, request an official letter of invitation to the Global Gathering by contacting '''visa@digitalrights.community.'''</big><br />
# Reach out to the Visa Support Staff with updates about your visa application process. If you hit any roadblocks, let the team know immediately so they can help support you. <br />
<br />
= Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization =<br />
Starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries planning on entering Europe for a short-term stay will have to apply for ETIAS travel authorization. While implementation of the ETIAS program has been postponed until the last quarter of 2026, we still '''strongly recommend''' that you review basic information about the program which country nationals will need to apply by checking the [https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/who-should-apply_en official ETIAS website].<br />
<br />
Have questions about the new ETIAS Travel Authorization process? Contact us at '''visa@digitalrights.community''' for more information.<br />
<br />
= Security Support and Advice =<br />
Make sure to checkout our '''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit Travel and Safety Guide]''' to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more!</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=54600Hotels and Transportation2025-12-12T12:53:02Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
----[[File:Estoril.jpg|frameless|476x476px|left]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<big>Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafe, restaurants and beautiful beaches.</big><br />
----<br />
== Hotels ==<br />
Below you will find several hotel options that are located within walking/train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.<br />
Please note that the prices listed below are approximations and may vary at the time of booking. Be sure to confirm if the room has two beds or one bed with double occupancy at reservation. “Double Room” does not necessarily mean that it will have two beds.<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:99%;"<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts 🏨'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Other Hotels in Estoril 🏛️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>100 - 150 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Alvorada'''<br><br />
350 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €130.00–150.00<br><br />
Contact: José Freire , Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 649 860<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@hotelalvorada.com reservas@hotelalvorada.com]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelalvorada.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Lido'''<br><br />
600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €140.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 679 420<br><br />
[https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Hotel Inglaterra'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €145.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 684 461<br><br />
Email: [mailto:Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>150 - 200 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Vila Galé, Estoril'''<br><br />
450 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €165.00-180.00<br><br />
Contact: Belmiro Pinto – Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 648 400<br><br />
Email: [mailto:estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com]<br><br />
[https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Clube do Lago Hotel''' <br>18-minute walk from GG Venue<br>Price: €150.00-190.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 666 000<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt/contactos/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Amazonia Estoril Hotel'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150.00–180.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 213 199 150<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@amazoniahoteis.com reservas@amazoniahoteis.com]<br><br />
[https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" | Hotels & Hostels near Estoril '''🏘️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais'''<br><br />
25-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Shared Dorm Room Price: €30.00–40.00<br><br />
Private Room: €100–130.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 916 880 056<br><br />
[https://www.ljmonade.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Cascais City and Beach Hotel'''<br><br />
20-minute trip to GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €190.00–200.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 211 164 330<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com]<br><br />
[https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Sui7es Guest House – Cascais'''<br><br />
15-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €175.00–185.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 215 801 187<br><br />
[https://sui7es.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" |Other Rental Options '''🏡'''<br />
| colspan="3" style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''<big>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril-Cascais area:</big>'''<br />
* '''Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo)''' (Rental homes): https://www.vrbo.com/<br />
* '''Hostelworld''' (Dorms, shared rooms and private rooms with shared facilities): https://hostelworld.com/<br />
* '''*Airbnb''' (Rooms and apartments with private and shared facilities): https://www.airbnb.com/<br />
* '''*Booking.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.booking.com<br />
* '''*Hotels.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.hotels.com/<br />
'''*'''Please note that websites with this symbol (*) appear on several boycott lists for offering accommodations on illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They are also listed in a recent U.N Special Rapporteur report, "[https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/ From the Economy of Occupation to the Economy of Genocide]", as companies profiting from the occupation, apartheid and genocide of Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area ==<br />
[[File:Estoril train station.png|''<big>The GG Venue is only a 10 minute walk to the Estoril train station on the Comboios Train</big>'' |thumb|471x471px]]<br />
<br />
=== Metro Area Train Systems 🚃 ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
=== Taxis and Ride Sharing Services 🚖 ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== Bike Rentals '''🚲''' ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
<br />
== Getting to Estoril '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Metro & Train ✈️ ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Taxi 🚖 ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two. .<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
==== Fom Central Lisbon Via Train 🏰 ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=54599Hotels and Transportation2025-12-12T12:52:40Z<p>Andrea: /* Hotels */</p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
----[[File:Estoril.jpg|frameless|476x476px|left]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<big>Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafe, restaurants and beautiful beaches.</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
<br />
== Hotels ==<br />
Below you will find several hotel options that are located within walking/train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.<br />
Please note that the prices listed below are approximations and may vary at the time of booking. Be sure to confirm if the room has two beds or one bed with double occupancy at reservation. “Double Room” does not necessarily mean that it will have two beds.<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:99%;"<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts 🏨'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Other Hotels in Estoril 🏛️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>100 - 150 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Alvorada'''<br><br />
350 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €130.00–150.00<br><br />
Contact: José Freire , Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 649 860<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@hotelalvorada.com reservas@hotelalvorada.com]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelalvorada.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Lido'''<br><br />
600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €140.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 679 420<br><br />
[https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Hotel Inglaterra'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €145.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 684 461<br><br />
Email: [mailto:Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>150 - 200 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Vila Galé, Estoril'''<br><br />
450 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €165.00-180.00<br><br />
Contact: Belmiro Pinto – Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 648 400<br><br />
Email: [mailto:estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com]<br><br />
[https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Clube do Lago Hotel''' <br>18-minute walk from GG Venue<br>Price: €150.00-190.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 666 000<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt/contactos/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Amazonia Estoril Hotel'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150.00–180.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 213 199 150<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@amazoniahoteis.com reservas@amazoniahoteis.com]<br><br />
[https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" | Hotels & Hostels near Estoril '''🏘️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais'''<br><br />
25-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Shared Dorm Room Price: €30.00–40.00<br><br />
Private Room: €100–130.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 916 880 056<br><br />
[https://www.ljmonade.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Cascais City and Beach Hotel'''<br><br />
20-minute trip to GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €190.00–200.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 211 164 330<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com]<br><br />
[https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Sui7es Guest House – Cascais'''<br><br />
15-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €175.00–185.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 215 801 187<br><br />
[https://sui7es.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" |Other Rental Options '''🏡'''<br />
| colspan="3" style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''<big>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril-Cascais area:</big>'''<br />
* '''Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo)''' (Rental homes): https://www.vrbo.com/<br />
* '''Hostelworld''' (Dorms, shared rooms and private rooms with shared facilities): https://hostelworld.com/<br />
* '''*Airbnb''' (Rooms and apartments with private and shared facilities): https://www.airbnb.com/<br />
* '''*Booking.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.booking.com<br />
* '''*Hotels.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.hotels.com/<br />
'''*'''Please note that websites with this symbol (*) appear on several boycott lists for offering accommodations on illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They are also listed in a recent U.N Special Rapporteur report, "[https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/ From the Economy of Occupation to the Economy of Genocide]", as companies profiting from the occupation, apartheid and genocide of Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area ==<br />
[[File:Estoril train station.png|''<big>The GG Venue is only a 10 minute walk to the Estoril train station on the Comboios Train</big>'' |thumb|471x471px]]<br />
<br />
=== Metro Area Train Systems 🚃 ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
=== Taxis and Ride Sharing Services 🚖 ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== Bike Rentals '''🚲''' ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
<br />
== Getting to Estoril '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Metro & Train ✈️ ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Taxi 🚖 ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two. .<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
==== Fom Central Lisbon Via Train 🏰 ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=54598Hotels and Transportation2025-12-12T12:51:40Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
----[[File:Estoril.jpg|frameless|476x476px|left]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<big>Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafe, restaurants and beautiful beaches.</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
== Hotels ==<br />
Below you will find several hotel options that are located within walking/train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.<br />
Please note that the prices listed below are approximations and may vary at the time of booking. Be sure to confirm if the room has two beds or one bed with double occupancy at reservation. “Double Room” does not necessarily mean that it will have two beds.<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:99%;"<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts 🏨'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Other Hotels in Estoril 🏛️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>100 - 150 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Alvorada'''<br><br />
350 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €130.00–150.00<br><br />
Contact: José Freire , Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 649 860<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@hotelalvorada.com reservas@hotelalvorada.com]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelalvorada.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Lido'''<br><br />
600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €140.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 679 420<br><br />
[https://www.hotellido.pt/pt/contactos.html Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Hotel Inglaterra'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €145.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 684 461<br><br />
Email: [mailto:Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>150 - 200 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Vila Galé, Estoril'''<br><br />
450 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €165.00-180.00<br><br />
Contact: Belmiro Pinto – Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 648 400<br><br />
Email: [mailto:estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com]<br><br />
[https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Clube do Lago Hotel''' <br>18-minute walk from GG Venue<br>Price: €150.00-190.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 666 000<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt/contactos/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Amazonia Estoril Hotel'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150.00–180.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 213 199 150<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@amazoniahoteis.com reservas@amazoniahoteis.com]<br><br />
[https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" | Hotels & Hostels near Estoril '''🏘️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais'''<br><br />
25-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Shared Dorm Room Price: €30.00–40.00<br><br />
Private Room: €100–130.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 916 880 056<br><br />
[https://www.ljmonade.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Cascais City and Beach Hotel'''<br><br />
20-minute trip to GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €190.00–200.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 211 164 330<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com]<br><br />
[https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Sui7es Guest House – Cascais'''<br><br />
15-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €175.00–185.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 215 801 187<br><br />
[https://sui7es.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" |Other Rental Options '''🏡'''<br />
| colspan="3" style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''<big>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril-Cascais area:</big>'''<br />
* '''Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo)''' (Rental homes): https://www.vrbo.com/<br />
* '''Hostelworld''' (Dorms, shared rooms and private rooms with shared facilities): https://hostelworld.com/<br />
* '''*Airbnb''' (Rooms and apartments with private and shared facilities): https://www.airbnb.com/<br />
* '''*Booking.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.booking.com<br />
* '''*Hotels.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.hotels.com/<br />
'''*'''Please note that websites with this symbol (*) appear on several boycott lists for offering accommodations on illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They are also listed in a recent U.N Special Rapporteur report, "[https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/ From the Economy of Occupation to the Economy of Genocide]", as companies profiting from the occupation, apartheid and genocide of Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area ==<br />
[[File:Estoril train station.png|''<big>The GG Venue is only a 10 minute walk to the Estoril train station on the Comboios Train</big>'' |thumb|471x471px]]<br />
<br />
=== Metro Area Train Systems 🚃 ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
=== Taxis and Ride Sharing Services 🚖 ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== Bike Rentals '''🚲''' ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
<br />
== Getting to Estoril '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Metro & Train ✈️ ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Taxi 🚖 ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two. .<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
==== Fom Central Lisbon Via Train 🏰 ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=54597Hotels and Transportation2025-12-12T12:48:11Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
----[[File:Estoril.jpg|frameless|476x476px|left]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<big>Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride from the GG venue, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafe, restaurants and beautiful beaches.</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
== Hotels ==<br />
Below you will find several hotel options that are located within walking/train distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.<br />
Please note that the prices listed below are approximations and may vary at the time of booking. Be sure to confirm if the room has two beds or one bed with double occupancy at reservation. “Double Room” does not necessarily mean that it will have two beds.<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:99%;"<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts 🏨'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF; width:15%;" | '''Other Hotels in Estoril 🏛️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>100 - 150 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Alvorada'''<br><br />
350 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €120.00–140.00<br><br />
Contact: José Freire , Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 649 860<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@hotelalvorada.com reservas@hotelalvorada.com]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelalvorada.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Amazonia Estoril Hotel'''<br><br />
600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €135.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 213 199 150<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@amazoniahoteis.com reservas@amazoniahoteis.com]<br><br />
[https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Hotel Inglaterra'''<br>600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €145.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 684 461<br><br />
Email: [mailto:Geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt geral@hotelinglaterra.com.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelinglaterraestoril.com.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | <u>150 - 200 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Hotel Vila Galé, Estoril'''<br><br />
450 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150<br><br />
Contact: Belmiro Pinto – Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 648 400<br><br />
Email: [mailto:estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com]<br><br />
[https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |'''Clube do Lago Hotel''' <br>18-minute walk from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150.00-190.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 666 000<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt reservas@clubedolagohotel.pt]<br><br />
[https://www.clubedolagohotel.pt/contactos/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" |<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" | Hotels & Hostels near Estoril '''🏘️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais'''<br><br />
25-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Shared Dorm Room Price: €30.00–40.00<br><br />
Private Room: €100–130.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 916 880 056<br><br />
[https://www.ljmonade.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Cascais City and Beach Hotel'''<br><br />
20-minute trip to GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €190.00–200.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 211 164 330<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com]<br><br />
[https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''Sui7es Guest House – Cascais'''<br><br />
15-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €175.00–185.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 215 801 187<br><br />
[https://sui7es.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #FFFFFF;" |Other Rental Options '''🏡'''<br />
| colspan="3" style="background: #FFFFFF;" | '''<big>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril-Cascais area:</big>'''<br />
* '''Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo)''' (Rental homes): https://www.vrbo.com/<br />
* '''Hostelworld''' (Dorms, shared rooms and private rooms with shared facilities): https://hostelworld.com/<br />
* '''*Airbnb''' (Rooms and apartments with private and shared facilities): https://www.airbnb.com/<br />
* '''*Booking.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.booking.com<br />
* '''*Hotels.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.hotels.com/<br />
'''*'''Please note that websites with this symbol (*) appear on several boycott lists for offering accommodations on illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They are also listed in a recent U.N Special Rapporteur report, "[https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/ From the Economy of Occupation to the Economy of Genocide]", as companies profiting from the occupation, apartheid and genocide of Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area ==<br />
[[File:Estoril train station.png|''<big>The GG Venue is only a 10 minute walk to the Estoril train station on the Comboios Train</big>'' |thumb|471x471px]]<br />
<br />
=== Metro Area Train Systems 🚃 ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
=== Taxis and Ride Sharing Services 🚖 ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== Bike Rentals '''🚲''' ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
<br />
== Getting to Estoril '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Metro & Train ✈️ ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Taxi 🚖 ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two. .<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
==== Fom Central Lisbon Via Train 🏰 ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Hotels_and_Transportation&diff=54596Hotels and Transportation2025-12-12T12:28:19Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
----[[File:Estoril.jpg|frameless|476x476px|left]]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<big>Home of the GG, Estoril is located just 25 km from Lisbon, which can be reached in less than 40 minutes via train. It is also only a few kilometers from the vibrant seaside city of Cascais, which can be reached via a five minute train ride, or by taking a 20 minute walk on the famous boardwalk. On this walk you will encounter tons of cafe, restaurants and beautiful beaches.</big><br />
----<br />
<br />
== Hotels '''⭐''' ==<br />
Below you will find several hotel options that are located within walking distance of the Global Gathering venue in Estoril, Portugal.<br />
Please note that the prices listed below are approximations and may vary at the time of booking. Be sure to confirm if the room has two beds or one bed with double occupancy at reservation. “Double Room” does not necessarily mean that it will have two beds.<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="width:99%;"<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #8EE6C0; width:15%;" | '''Hotels with Global Gathering Discounts 🏨'''<br />
! style="background: #FFF9C4; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFF9C4; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
! style="background: #FFF9C4; width:30%;" | '''FORTHCOMING'''<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #8EE6C0; width:15%;" | '''Other Hotels in Estoril 🏛️'''<br />
| style="background: #8EE6C0;" |<br />
| style="background: #8EE6C0;" |<br />
| style="background: #8EE6C0;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #5BE6EF;" | <u>100 - 150 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Hotel Alvorada'''<br><br />
350 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €120.00–140.00<br><br />
Contact: José Freire , Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 649 860<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@hotelalvorada.com reservas@hotelalvorada.com]<br><br />
[https://www.hotelalvorada.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Amazonia Estoril Hotel'''<br><br />
600 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €135.00–150.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 213 199 150<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservas@amazoniahoteis.com reservas@amazoniahoteis.com]<br><br />
[https://www.amazoniahoteis.com/en/hotels/estoril/amazonia-estoril-cascais/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" |<br />
|-<br />
| style="background: #5BE6EF;" | <u>150 - 200 Euro per night</u><br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Hotel Vila Galé, Estoril'''<br><br />
450 m from GG Venue<br><br />
Price: €150<br><br />
Contact: Belmiro Pinto – Operations Manager<br><br />
Phone: +351 214 648 400<br><br />
Email: [mailto:estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com estoril.recepcao1@vilagale.com]<br><br />
[https://www.vilagale.com/pt/hoteis/costa-de-lisboa/vila-gale-estoril Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" |<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" |<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #8EE6C0;" | Hotels & Hostels near Estoril '''🏘️'''<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Ljmonade Hostel – Cascais'''<br><br />
25-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Shared Dorm Room Price: €30.00–40.00<br><br />
Private Room: €100–130.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 916 880 056<br><br />
[https://www.ljmonade.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Cascais City and Beach Hotel'''<br><br />
20-minute trip to GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €190.00–200.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 211 164 330<br><br />
Email: [mailto:reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com reservations@cascaiscbhotel.com]<br><br />
[https://www.cascaiscbhotel.com/ Website]<br />
| style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''Sui7es Guest House – Cascais'''<br><br />
15-minute trip to the GG on public transport<br><br />
Price: €175.00–185.00<br><br />
Phone: +351 215 801 187<br><br />
[https://sui7es.pt/ Website]<br />
|-<br />
! style="background: #8EE6C0;" |Other Rental Options '''🏡'''<br />
| colspan="3" style="background: #FFF9C4;" | '''<big>The following websites offer many options in the Estoril-Cascais area:</big>'''<br />
* '''Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo)''' (Rental homes): https://www.vrbo.com/<br />
* '''Hostelworld''' (Dorms, shared rooms and private rooms with shared facilities): https://hostelworld.com/<br />
* '''*Airbnb''' (Rooms and apartments with private and shared facilities): https://www.airbnb.com/<br />
* '''*Booking.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.booking.com<br />
* '''*Hotels.com''' (Hotel rooms, bed and breakfasts and home rentals): https://www.hotels.com/<br />
'''*'''Please note that websites with this symbol (*) appear on several boycott lists for offering accommodations on illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They are also listed in a recent U.N Special Rapporteur report, "[https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/ From the Economy of Occupation to the Economy of Genocide]", as companies profiting from the occupation, apartheid and genocide of Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<br />
|}<br />
<br />
.<br />
<br />
== Transportation in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area ==<br />
[[File:Estoril train station.png|''<big>The GG Venue is only a 10 minute walk to the Estoril train station on the Comboios Train</big>'' |thumb|471x471px]]<br />
<br />
=== Metro Area Train Systems 🚃 ===<br />
Portugal has two train systems: <br />
<br />
* '''Metro Train System:''' https://www.metrolisboa.pt/en/ This operates within Lisbon city and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are mostly underground. .<br />
* '''Comboios Train System:''' https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en This is the regional and national rail services. It connects Lisbon to close cities like Estoril and even farther away cities like Oporto. <br />
=== Taxis and Ride Sharing Services 🚖 ===<br />
The most common taxi and ride sharing services are: <br />
<br />
* '''Uber:''' https://www.uber.com/pt/en/<br />
* '''Bolt:''' https://bolt.eu/en/cities/lisbon/<br />
<br />
=== Bike Rentals '''🚲''' ===<br />
Renting a bike is an option in the Estoril-Cascais area. These two bike rental companies offer rentals ranging from 1 hour to 7 days:<br />
<br />
* '''Rent Bike, Cascais, Lisbon:''' https://www.rentbike.pt/bike-rental/<br />
*'''Tomorrow’s Adventure, Bike Rentals:''' [https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html https://www.tomorrowsadventure.pt/bicycles.html<br />]<br />
<br />
== Getting to Estoril '''⭐''' ==<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Metro & Train ✈️ ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 1.5 hours or less<br />
<br />
# The airport metro stop is located outside of arrivals at Terminal One.<br />
# Take the RED METRO LINE in the direction of São Sebastião<br />
# Get off at the Alameda stop to transfer to the GREEN METRO LINE heading towards Cais do Sodre<br />
# Get off at Cais do Sodre and follow signs for the Comboios Train System (its in the same train station).<br />
# Take the train towards Cascais<br />
# Get off at the Estoril station. From there, the venue is only a 10 minute walk.<br />
<br />
==== From the Airport Via Taxi 🚖 ====<br />
*'''Estimated Cost:''' 25-30 Euro<br />
*'''Duration:''' 25 minutes<br />
<br />
There are two main pick up and drop off points at Terminal 1 of the Lisbon Airport. Both Bolt and Uber work at either of these points: <br />
<br />
* The ''Kiss&Fly parking lot'' is located at the entrance of the Departures Hall at Terminal One. It is just in front of the free shuttle service to Terminal Two. .<br />
* ''P2 parking'' is located in the Arrivals Hall at Terminal One. Once you exit the baggage claim department, take a left and walk past the Starbucks towards the exit and the P2 parking lot. You will see signs for the ride sharing pick up zone.<br />
==== Fom Central Lisbon Via Train 🏰 ====<br />
* '''Cost:''' Approximately 2.5 Euro<br />
* '''Duration:''' 40 minutes<br />
<br />
1. Start at the Cais do Sodré train station and take the train towards Cascais. <br />
<br />
2. Estoril is two stops before Cascais.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Estoril&diff=54595Navigating Estoril2025-12-12T12:23:39Z<p>Andrea: /* ATMs & Banks */</p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
== Interactive Estoril Map ==<br />
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|438x438px|Photo of boys jumping in the sea in Estoril.]]<br />
This [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] of Estoril, created by the GG team, has the location of different services, train stations, restaurants and cafes (including vegan), supermarkets, and cultural landmarks. . <br />
<br />
== National Emergency Hotline ==<br />
If you need emergency services in Portugal, call de 112, which is the Europe-wide emergency number. It is available 24/7. <br />
<br />
== Healthcare ==<br />
<br />
=== '''💊''' Pharmacies Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/iYyqBayRCq5YQcnc8 Farmácia do Parque] /''' 6 minute walk from the GG Venue R. das Arcadas do Parque 15 e 16 Open Monday to Sunday - 9:00 - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/59gBNGL2hiHdoR2YA Farmácia Ostende]''' / 21 minute walk from the GG Venue (next to Estoril Train Station) Tv. do Mercado nº1-B, 2765-426 Estoril, Portugal Open Monday to Sunday - 9am - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/aewWcQx9EYKe7hD98 Farmácia São João] /''' 20 minute walk from the GG venue (next to the Sao Joao do <br />
<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
We have complied a list of day trips you can take from Estoril, that you can find in our guide for [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]. <br />
</div><br />
*Estoril train station) Praça da Carreira 29, 2765-472 Estoril, Portugal Open Saturday - 9am - 19:00, Monday to Friday - 8:30 - 20:00<br />
<br />
=== '''🏥''' Hospitals Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://www.cuf.pt/hospitais-e-clinicas/hospital-cuf-cascais Hospital CUF Cascais]''' R. Fernão Lopes 60, 2750-663 Cascais, Portugal +351 21 114 1400<br />
<br />
* '''[http://www.hospitaldecascais.pt/ Emergency Hospital of Cascais]''' Av. Brigadeiro Victor Novais Gonçalves, 2755-009 Alcabideche, Portugal +351 21 465 3000<br />
<br />
== ATMs & Banks ==<br />
We have two '''Multibanco ATM''' spots next to the Global Gathering. We recommend to avoid Euronet ATMs, since they don't notify you about how much they will charge you for using their services.<br />
*You can only withdraw 200 euros at a time from an ATM (600 euro max per day).<br />
* Check with the bank the best process to make a withdrawal.<br />
*Banks are the easiest places to exchange money, charging around €3 to €5 commission.<br />
*Debit and major credit cards (especially Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted.<br />
== Restaurants & Cafes ==<br />
Here is an abridged lists of restaurants and cafes near the GG venue. Please see the [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] for a comprehensive list of amenities in Estoril. <br />
<br />
'''[https://garrettestoril.pt/menu/bebidas/cafetaria Pasteleria Garret]''' / Cafe serving coffee and traditional Portuguese sweets. 5-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
'''[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d21172586-Reviews-Indian_palace-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html Indian Palace] /''' Indian restaurant serving a large variety of dishes. 15-minute walk from GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.palacioestorilhotel.com/restaurants/organic-caffe/ '''Organic Caffe''']/ Healthy cafe serving sandwiches and salads. 3-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d3573271-Reviews-Chocolate_Pimenta-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html '''Cafeteria Chocolate com Pimenta'''] / Cafe and restaurant serving lunch, coffee, and deserts. 5-minute walk from the GG venue.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54558Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T13:30:06Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
{| <br />
|[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div><br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|163x163px|rooster|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
{| <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|frameless|161x161px|center]]<br />
|<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54557Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T13:23:28Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
{| <br />
|[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div><br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|163x163px|rooster|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
|-<br />
|[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|frameless|161x161px|center]]<br />
|<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54556Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T13:17:03Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
{| <br />
|[[File:Visa26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div><br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|163x163px|rooster|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
|-<br />
|[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|frameless|161x161px|center]]<br />
|<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style=" margin-right: Auto; margin-left: 0px; width: background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54555Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T13:10:52Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
{| <br />
|[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|163x163px|rooster|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
|-<br />
|[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|frameless|161x161px|center]]<br />
|<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style=" margin-right: Auto; margin-left: 0px; width: background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54554Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T12:58:59Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
{| class="wikitable"<br />
|[[File:Equityfund26.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be reopening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|frameless|162x162px|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
|-<br />
|[[File:Rooster.png|frameless|163x163px|rooster|center]]<br />
|<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
|-<br />
|[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|frameless|161x161px|center]]<br />
|<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="border:none;style=" margin-right: Auto; margin-left: 0px; width: background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54553Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T12:26:07Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions. <br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54552Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T12:25:11Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Visa_and_Security_Support&diff=54551Visa and Security Support2025-12-11T12:21:32Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br /><br />
</div><br />
== Updates ==<br />
''<big>This page has all the information you need regarding obtaining a visa for the Global Gathering, security and safety advice, and contact information for the GG staff, should you need customized support.</big>'' <br />
<br />
* Starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries planning on entering Europe for a short-term stay will have to apply for '''[https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-etias_en ETIAS Travel Authorization]'''. This requirement should be in effect by the last quarter of 2026; however, the program's roll-out dates have shifted several times over the past year. Please familiarize yourself with ETIAS protocols to determine if they will apply to you. More information about ETIAS Travel Authorization is listed below.<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|right|frameless|421x421px]]<br />
<br />
= Applying for a Schengen Visa =<br />
Depending on the passport that you hold, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa through a Portuguese consulate or visa center in your country of residence. Please be sure to apply for a visa appointment as soon as possible as many consulates and embassies have a large back log. <br />
<br />
Team CommUNITY staff is here to help you through the visa application process and provide support. You can reach us at '''visa@digitalrights.community.'''<br />
<br />
'''<big>To start the process:</big>'''<br />
<br />
# Determine [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/general-information/who-needs-a-visa#list-of-nationalities-who-must-be-in-possession-of-a-visa if you need to apply for a Schengen visa] to travel to Portugal; <br><br />
# [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/required-documentation/short-stay-visa Review the documents you will need for your visa application] (Please note that this is a list of generally required documents. Be sure to check with your specific embassy or consulate for a list of necessary documents as well); <br></big><br />
# Request a visa appointment through [https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/general-information/where-should-you-lodge-a-visa-application#countries-a-to-f the local consulate or embassy processing visas to visit Portugal]. <br></big><br />
# If needed, request an official letter of invitation to the Global Gathering by contacting '''visa@digitalrights.community.'''</big><br />
# Reach out to the Visa Support Staff with updates about your visa application process. If you hit any roadblocks, let the team know immediately so they can help support you. <br />
<br />
= Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization =<br />
Starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries planning on entering Europe for a short-term stay will have to apply for ETIAS travel authorization. While implementation of the ETIAS program has been postponed until the last quarter of 2026, we still '''strongly recommend''' that you review basic information about the program which country nationals will need to apply by checking the [https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/who-should-apply_en official ETIAS website].<br />
<br />
Have questions about the new ETIAS Travel Authorization process? Contact us at '''visa@digitalrights.community''' for more information.<br />
<br />
== Security Support and Advice ==<br />
Forthcoming</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54550Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T12:05:15Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
=== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃'''</span></big> ===<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54549Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:58:46Z<p>Andrea: /* Partners and Satellite Events */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026'''</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54548Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:58:18Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026'''</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54547Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:57:56Z<p>Andrea: /* 🍃 Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026 🍃 */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026'''</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54546Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:57:40Z<p>Andrea: /* Planning your Trip */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026''' 🍃</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54545Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:56:53Z<p>Andrea: /* Application and Ticketing Platform */</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026''' 🍃</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Global_Gathering_2026&diff=54544Global Gathering 20262025-12-11T11:56:33Z<p>Andrea: Copy edits and some formatting. Cleaning up extra periods etc...</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
[[File:WikiGG26Hero.png|433x433px|left|thumb|<br />
<br />
<br><big>'''Examples of issues participants work on:'''</big> <br><br>🌱 <big>Holistic digital security and protection of civil society;<br><br>🌱 Counteracting online censorship and surveillance;<br><br>🌱 Community-focused approaches to issues like AI, disinformation, internet policy and governance, climate and tech, among others.</big><br />
<br />
]]<br />
<br />
== <big><span>🍃 '''Welcome to the Global Gathering 2026''' 🍃</span></big> ==<br />
<big>'''When:''' September 4, 5, and 6, 2026</big><br />
<br />
<big>'''Where:''' Estoril, Portugal</big> <br />
[[File:Gathering Defenders.png|right|frameless|232x232px]]<br />
The Global Gathering brings together groups throughout the world working on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, social justice, civil society, and journalism at the local, regional and global levels. <br />
<br />
The gathering’s humane design, unique outdoor venue, and robust security and safety protocols have been celebrated for fostering authentic trust-building and catalyzing impactful coalitions.<br />
<br />
.<br />
<br />
<br />
== '''Application and Ticketing Platform ''' ==<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
''Not 100% sure you can attend? Please apply anyway as you can always cancel your attendance at a later date. We '''highly recommend''' that you apply as soon as possible, as applications go through a rigorous vetting and review process for security reasons. This year we will '''NOT''' accept any applications '''AFTER''' the official deadline.'' <br />
</div>[[File:Gt26tickteicon.png|alt=global gathering ticketing platform|left|frameless|161x161px|Gt26tickteicon]]<br />
* Please familiarize yourself with the GG's [[Global Gathering Three Step Application and Ticketing Process|three step application and ticketing process]], designed to ensure the security and safety of the event.<br />
<u>The Global Gathering Platform will be open in Mid-December</u>.<br />
<br />
== '''Partners and Satellite Events''' ==<br />
[[File:Participants+at+the+GG.jpg|link=File:Participants_at_the_GG.jpg|<big>Did you know that participants represent</big> <big>over 120+ countries, with 51% of</big> <big>attendees</big> <big>living in</big> <big>the</big> <big>Global Majority, and</big> <big>54% identify</big><big>ing</big> <big>as women or gender non-conforming.</big><br />
<br />
|thumb|514x514px]]<br />
Consider becoming a partner for the Global Gathering 2026, and support one of the largest gatherings in the world of defenders working at the intersection of technology and tech. Your support goes directly to support our Equity Fund, and the safety and security of the event. <br />
<br />
<big>'''New to 2026: Expanded Opportunities for Villages and Satellite Events'''</big><br />
<br />
To ensure that the GG is a more effective tool in 2026, we are expanding opportunities for TCU Partners via '''Villages''' (community-led hubs focused on specific themes, regions or areas of practices) and '''Satellite Events''' (private or public gatherings hosted by partners before, during or after the GG, such as private workshops, stakeholder meetups, team retreats, and more). <br />
<br />
To learn more about these and other TCU Partner opportunities, please reach out to us at team@digitalrights.community as soon as possible to ensure we can provide you with the best possible support. <br />
<br />
== '''<big>Planning your Trip</big>''' ==<br />
[[File:Visa26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; margin:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
Even if you are not 100% sure you can attend, we highly recommend you schedule your embassy/consulate appointment '''ASAP''' to avoid delays. You can always cancel the appointment at a later date if need be. <br />
</div> <br />
=== '''Visa and Security Support''' ===<br />
Please review our '''[[Visa and Security Support]]''' page which has detailed information regarding: <br />
<br />
*👉 Obtaining a Schengen visa for Portugal<br />
*👉 Applying for ETIAS Travel Authorization<br />
* 👉 Ongoing support TCU can offer during your visa process<br />
* 👉 How to obtain customized security support from our Visa Support Staff<br />
Please review our thorough [https://docs.google.com/document/d/193lcTfl7OYkEGTwB7Of-A2LLgfRvz0nr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104123226664325204942&rtpof=true&sd=true '''Travel and Safety Guide'''] to ensure your protection before, during, and after your participation in the GG. Included is a great checklist of items to bring, contact numbers of both TCU team and Portuguese entities to have on hand, and much more! <br />
----<br />
[[File:Equityfund26.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Equity Fund''' ===<br />
We will be re-opening the [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund in 2026''']]. Stay tuned for details. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Hotel and transportation.png|left|frameless|162x162px]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Hotels and Transportation''' ===<br />
We have compiled [[Hotels and Transportation|'''a complete list of hotels and transportation options''']], including cost estimates. The venue is only a 10 minute walk from the Estoril train station, and Portugal has incredible public transportation, meaning lodging in nearby towns (and even Lisbon itself) is possible. <br />
<br />
----<br />
[[File:Rooster.png|left|frameless|163x163px|rooster]]<br />
<br />
=== '''Navigating Estoril and Portugal Guides''' ===<br />
<br />
* Our [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']] guide has a list of pharmacies, hospitals, ATMs and banks near the venue, as well as an interactive map, created by the TCU staff, with landmarks, restaurants (including vegan options), printers, and much more!<br />
<br />
Our [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']] guide features terms to order coffee; recommended day trips from Estoril; an overview of the digital rights ecosystem in the country, and more!<br />
<br />
== '''Community, Security & Health Policies''' ==<br />
'''Stay tuned! All of our community and security policies will be updated for 2026'''<br />
[[File:2025 Black Health Policies.png|left|frameless|161x161px]]<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Code_of_Conduct '''<big>Code of Conduct</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Security_Policy '''<big>Security Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: 0px; width: Auto; background-color:#5BE6EF;"<br />
|[https://wiki.digitalrights.community/Global_Gathering_COVID-19_Policy '''<big>COVID Policy</big>''']<br />
|}<br />
<br />
== Global Gathering Past Editions ==<br />
To learn more about the Global Gathering, take a look at:<br />
<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/17-oTUzl81l8FVKmn9P57oeGbafd9fDTADQk8abFc4kg/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2024 Report-Back]<br />
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz9pxqHZDmamgZKWkNz7kePt51cIaikgodU66a5YGWI/edit?tab=t.0 Global Gathering 2023 Report-Back]</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Estoril&diff=54515Navigating Estoril2025-12-08T12:37:54Z<p>Andrea: </p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
== Interactive Estoril Map ==<br />
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|438x438px|picture of boys jumping in the sea @ Estoril]]<br />
This [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] of Estoril, created by the GG team, has the location of different services, train stations, restaurants and cafes (including vegan), supermarkets, and cultural landmarks. . <br />
<br />
== National Emergency Hotline ==<br />
If you need emergency services in Portugal, call de 112, which is the Europe-wide emergency number. It is available 24/7 <br />
<br />
== Healthcare ==<br />
<br />
=== '''💊''' Pharmacies Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/iYyqBayRCq5YQcnc8 Farmácia do Parque] /''' 6 minute walk from the GG Venue R. das Arcadas do Parque 15 e 16 Open Monday to Sunday - 9:00 - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/59gBNGL2hiHdoR2YA Farmácia Ostende]''' / 21 minute walk from the GG Venue (next to Estoril Train Station) Tv. do Mercado nº1-B, 2765-426 Estoril, Portugal Open Monday to Sunday - 9am - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/aewWcQx9EYKe7hD98 Farmácia São João] /''' 20 minute walk from the GG venue (next to the Sao Joao do <br />
<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
We have complied a list of day trips you can take from Estoril, that you can find in our guide for [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]. <br />
</div><br />
*Estoril train station) Praça da Carreira 29, 2765-472 Estoril, Portugal Open Saturday - 9am - 19:00, Monday to Friday - 8:30 - 20:00<br />
<br />
=== '''🏥''' Hospitals Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://www.cuf.pt/hospitais-e-clinicas/hospital-cuf-cascais Hospital CUF Cascais]''' R. Fernão Lopes 60, 2750-663 Cascais, Portugal +351 21 114 1400<br />
<br />
* '''[http://www.hospitaldecascais.pt/ Emergency Hospital of Cascais]''' Av. Brigadeiro Victor Novais Gonçalves, 2755-009 Alcabideche, Portugal +351 21 465 3000<br />
<br />
== <big>ATMs & Banks</big> ==<br />
We have two '''Multibanco ATM''' spots next to the Global Gathering. We recommend to avoid Euronet ATMs, since they don't notify you about how much they will charge you for using their services.<br />
*You can only withdraw 200 euros at a time from an ATM (600 euro max per day).<br />
* Check with the bank the best process to make a withdrawal.<br />
*Banks are the easiest places to exchange money, charging around €3 to €5 commission.<br />
*Debit and major credit cards (especially Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted. <br />
<br />
== Restaurants & Cafes ==<br />
Here is an abridged lists of restaurants and cafes near the GG venue. Please see the [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] for a comprehensive list of amenities in Estoril. <br />
<br />
'''[https://garrettestoril.pt/menu/bebidas/cafetaria Pasteleria Garret]''' / Cafe serving coffee and traditional Portuguese sweets. 5-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
'''[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d21172586-Reviews-Indian_palace-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html Indian Palace] /''' Indian restaurant serving a large variety of dishes. 15-minute walk from GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.palacioestorilhotel.com/restaurants/organic-caffe/ '''Organic Caffe''']/ Healthy cafe serving sandwiches and salads. 3-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d3573271-Reviews-Chocolate_Pimenta-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html '''Cafeteria Chocolate com Pimenta'''] / Cafe and restaurant serving lunch, coffee, and deserts. 5-minute walk from the GG venue.</div>Andreahttps://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Navigating_Estoril&diff=54514Navigating Estoril2025-12-08T12:37:29Z<p>Andrea: /* ⭐ Restaurants & Cafes */</p>
<hr />
<div><div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* '''[[Visa and Security Support]]'''<br />
* [[Equity Fund|'''Equity Fund''']]<br />
* [[Hotels and Transportation|'''Hotels and Transportation Options''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Estoril|'''Navigating Estoril''']]<br />
* [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]<br />
* '''[[Global Gathering 2026|Global Gathering Homepage]]'''<br />
</div><br />
<div>__TOC__</div><br />
<br />
== Interactive Estoril Map ==<br />
[[File:Estoril.jpg|thumb|438x438px|picture of boys jumping in the sea @ Estoril]]<br />
This [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] of Estoril, created by the GG team, has the location of different services, train stations, restaurants and cafes (including vegan), supermarkets, and cultural landmarks. . <br />
<br />
== '''⭐''' National Emergency Hotline ==<br />
If you need emergency services in Portugal, call de 112, which is the Europe-wide emergency number. It is available 24/7 <br />
<br />
== '''⭐''' Healthcare ==<br />
<br />
=== '''💊''' Pharmacies Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/iYyqBayRCq5YQcnc8 Farmácia do Parque] /''' 6 minute walk from the GG Venue R. das Arcadas do Parque 15 e 16 Open Monday to Sunday - 9:00 - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/59gBNGL2hiHdoR2YA Farmácia Ostende]''' / 21 minute walk from the GG Venue (next to Estoril Train Station) Tv. do Mercado nº1-B, 2765-426 Estoril, Portugal Open Monday to Sunday - 9am - 20:00<br />
<br />
* '''[https://goo.gl/maps/aewWcQx9EYKe7hD98 Farmácia São João] /''' 20 minute walk from the GG venue (next to the Sao Joao do <br />
<br />
<div style="float:right; width:400px; padding:10px; background:#FFF9C4; border:1px solid #ccc; border-radius:6px;"><br />
We have complied a list of day trips you can take from Estoril, that you can find in our guide for [[Navigating Portugal: Culture, Useful Phrases, Day Trips, and the Digital Rights Ecosystem|'''Navigating Portugal''']]. <br />
</div><br />
*Estoril train station) Praça da Carreira 29, 2765-472 Estoril, Portugal Open Saturday - 9am - 19:00, Monday to Friday - 8:30 - 20:00<br />
<br />
=== '''🏥''' Hospitals Near the Venue ===<br />
<br />
* '''[https://www.cuf.pt/hospitais-e-clinicas/hospital-cuf-cascais Hospital CUF Cascais]''' R. Fernão Lopes 60, 2750-663 Cascais, Portugal +351 21 114 1400<br />
<br />
* '''[http://www.hospitaldecascais.pt/ Emergency Hospital of Cascais]''' Av. Brigadeiro Victor Novais Gonçalves, 2755-009 Alcabideche, Portugal +351 21 465 3000<br />
<br />
== '''⭐''' <big>ATMs & Banks</big> ==<br />
We have two '''Multibanco ATM''' spots next to the Global Gathering. We recommend to avoid Euronet ATMs, since they don't notify you about how much they will charge you for using their services.<br />
*You can only withdraw 200 euros at a time from an ATM (600 euro max per day).<br />
* Check with the bank the best process to make a withdrawal.<br />
*Banks are the easiest places to exchange money, charging around €3 to €5 commission.<br />
*Debit and major credit cards (especially Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted. <br />
<br />
== '''⭐''' Restaurants & Cafes ==<br />
Here is an abridged lists of restaurants and cafes near the GG venue. Please see the [https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=14fNAMlvZQvND3fuYLmRh9oGAGFoOPls&ll=38.778883421357854%2C-9.39305525710096&z=11 interactive map] for a comprehensive list of amenities in Estoril. <br />
<br />
'''[https://garrettestoril.pt/menu/bebidas/cafetaria Pasteleria Garret]''' / Cafe serving coffee and traditional Portuguese sweets. 5-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
'''[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d21172586-Reviews-Indian_palace-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html Indian Palace] /''' Indian restaurant serving a large variety of dishes. 15-minute walk from GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.palacioestorilhotel.com/restaurants/organic-caffe/ '''Organic Caffe''']/ Healthy cafe serving sandwiches and salads. 3-minute walk from the GG venue. <br />
<br />
[https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g189156-d3573271-Reviews-Chocolate_Pimenta-Estoril_Cascais_Lisbon_District_Central_Portugal.html '''Cafeteria Chocolate com Pimenta'''] / Cafe and restaurant serving lunch, coffee, and deserts. 5-minute walk from the GG venue.</div>Andrea