Friday, December 5, 2008

Censoring the Internet

The Australian Federal Government is attempting to mandate internet filtering at the ISP level. Ie. they want to force ISPs to implementing filtering technologies to restrict access to certain websites based what the government decides Australian citizens shouldn't see.

This is being advanced primarily on the platform of "saving the children", specifically from child pornorgraphy. However the legislation as it's worded does not explain exactly how the Government will decide certain web sites are unacceptable for ALL Australian citizens (not just those involving child pornography). Of course, Australians won't be able to know which sites are blocked, because as in all censorship schemes, this kind of transparency is unlikely for obvious reasons. If the government succeeds, Australia will be joining such esteemed champions of free speech such as China, Saudia Arabia and Iran.

There are simultaneous protests being held around the country on Saturday 13th December. Details available from http://www.nocleanfeedforum.com/. The Melbourne protest details are available from here and here. Facebook event here.

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