The importance of social networks in Human Rights

Social media come with potential problems, as well as gains. This new phenomenon presents us with a range of fresh challenges. One important issue is how to ensure that Internet regulations do not strangle freedom of expression.The Human Rights Commission of Australia has embraced social media: They are active on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube, and blogs. Citizens can register complaints online to the Human Rights Commission of New Zealand. The Equality and Human Rights Commission in Britain is also onboard with social media. The South African Human Rights Commission established an e-learning portal, partnering with educational institutions to promote human rights education. Most mainstream human rights advocates and campaigners use social media as an integral part of their outreach.Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and Witness are among the internationally recognized advocacy and research organizations now using Twitter to share information and calls to action. Amnesty International has said that social media is key as it explores the future of human rights activism.

The web presence of all ombudsman institutions and national human rights institutions should factor in the specific needs of people with disabilities, minorities (including such issues as minority languages), and other disadvantaged and vulnerable groups when using social media.

Whether or not the expanded reach of social media results in more effective advocacy, outreach, and thematic campaigns for policy change depends on how well rights institutions, advocates, and campaigners translate access into action.

The issue of public legitimacy is particularly pertinent as young people across the region (and in other regions too) are increasingly using social media to express themselves and share information.