A new study released by Freedom House, an independent watchdog dedicated to the expansion of freedom around the world, shows that South Africans enjoy a high level of Internet freedom.
The Freedom on the Net 2012 report showed that South Africans enjoyed Internet services without any “key internet controls” like the blocking of content, surveillance to remove anonymity, or attacks or arrests of government critics.
However, there are some warning signs that South Africa’s Internet freedom may be eroded with proposed legislation.
“Pending legislation in Australia and South Africa has come under criticism for broadening service providers’ surveillance obligations and legalizing the mass monitoring of transnational communications, respectively,” the report highlights.
It is not only South Africans and Australians fighting for online freedom. The report found that there is a global increase in the pushback by civil society, technology companies, and independent courts, resulting in several notable victories.
Internet Freedom comparison
The following chart provides an overview of the findings of the Freedom on the Net 2012 report.
Global Internet Freedom
South Africa reigned supreme when it came to Internet freedom on the African continent, finishing ahead of countries such as Kenya and Nigeria.
Internet Freedom in Africa
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