"Defending peaceful assembly and association in the digital age," July 2020

[T]he COVID-19 pandemic has reemphasized that the world is no longer connected only through physical assemblies and associations. Rather, we gather and connect online — across physical borders — to voice opinions, call to action, express solidarity, and access important, life-saving information.

…Yet, the closing of online civic space has impacted the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association online and off. Previously decentralized and open platforms and tools have now become restricted, with individuals and communities subject to privatization…censorship, harassment, surveillance, and persecution that deter the use of ICTs as tools of protest and associating online.

[E]mergency measures during COVID-19…are unfortunately being used by some to restrict lawful and legitimate exercises of association and assembly...This paper examines three current issues: (1) access, connectivity, and internet shutdowns, (2) unlawful surveillance and the right to privacy, and (3) the influence of the private sector in online civic space.