The fast pace of technological change and the cross-border nature of internet services present opportunities, but also challenges for users, who are faced, among other things, with online crime and insecurity, extremism and violence, abuse and intolerance.
While it is the task of governments to protect human rights and the rule of law online, companies play a critical role in addressing today’s challenges of the digital age because they provide and control its infrastructure. The partnership with the Council of Europe enables them to sit side-by-side with governments when shaping internet policy.
The Council of Europe Internet Governance Strategy 2016 - 2019 recognises the critical role that internet companies play not only in providing basic services and facilitating exercise of rights online, but also in effectively addressing today's challenges of the digital age. The Strategy therefore calls for enhanced dialogue and cooperation with internet companies and their representative associations to create a shared commitment when addressing the challenges of the internet.
The Council of Europe Leaflet on the Partnership with Internet Companies informs on the partnership agreements signed in the form of exchange of letters with leading technology firms and associations as well as on the concrete areas of cooperation, the variety of new opportunities and the value of partnerships for companies and associations.