What we envisage: Advancing all human rights

A prerequisite for all individuals to enjoy their human rights is to be able to form and express their own opinions.

As such, DW Akademie's work is guided by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which protects freedom of expression and access to information. Freedom of the press and the right to privacy are indispensable to freedom of opinion.

Here is our vision of a world where people freely express their views:

• Freedom of expression. Every individual has the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds in order to form opinions. The Internet and other information and communications technologies strengthen freedom of expression by allowing everyone's voice to be heard. Governments and other stakeholders respect, protect and guarantee the right to freedom of expression on the Internet.

• Freedom of the media. Media systems are dynamic networks with numerous stakeholders. These networks play a central societal role, providing for the free exchange of information and opinions. This role is especially safeguarded in the digital realm. Citizens use social media to enrich public discourse and they express their opinions publicly via digital platforms. Independent media enable valuable exchanges across social, political, ethnic and religious lines.

• Free access to information. It is faster and easier to find, consume, produce and disseminate information thanks to digitization. Governmental authorities proactively make official information publicly available. The Internet enables people to freely access information from all available digital sources. Every individual has the right to freedom of information.

• Right to privacy. The right to privacy is guaranteed in the digital realm, where private and confidential communication are prerequisites for realizing freedom of opinion. Users are protected from monitoring and intervention. Transparent rules regulate the storage and use of personal data and this data is only collected after individuals give explicit consent.

Article 19 aspires to a world where all media – regardless of the technology – are used to enhance social participation, especially of marginalized groups. Individuals and groups can voice their concerns in a responsible and critical manner, thereby realizing other human rights, such as the right to education. Freedom of opinion and access to information enable the participation of all citizens, allowing them to set public debate and shape their societies.

Part 3. What we do: Skillfully navigate digital transformation

DW Akademie strengthens human rights, fosters a vibrant public sphere and supports participation for all. According to its public service mandate, DW Akademie, together with its partners, supports the development of free and transparent media systems.

Part 4. How we work: joining forces with our partners

Just like our partner organizations, DW Akademie operates in a constantly changing environment, a characteristic of the digital age. Successfully navigating these changes is an integral part of our activities.

Back to Part 1.

Advancing freedom of expression in a digital world
How can we advance freedom of expression in the digital world? For DW Akademie, that's a key question. Its Digital Vision seeks an answer by focusing on people and their fundamental human rights.