Rights should be maximised and restrictions minimised while protecting the Internet from disruptions, protecting human rights online and fighting cybercrime. This will be the key message of the Council of Europe at the 6th Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which the UN is organising in Nairobi from 27 to 30 September.

Access to the Internet has become a pre-condition for people’s freedom of expression and ability to assemble and participate in public life. However, the Internet is exposed to threats; international cooperation is needed to address them. How can states, companies and civil society cooperate to protect users´ freedom, privacy and security in order for them to trust and feel safe on the Internet?

The Council of Europe will present its work to answer these questions and is organising four workshops and an open forum, and is supporting a session on the European Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG). Maud de Boer-Buquicchio, Council of Europe Deputy Secretary General, will participate in several meetings, including the opening ceremony.