Slashdot Mirror
Russia, China, and Others Seek Greater Control Over Internet
kodiaktau writes "A proposal put forth by Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates seeks greater international control and government of internet addressing. 'A leaked draft (PDF) of the Russia-led proposals would give countries "equal rights to manage the Internet including in regard to the allotment, assignment and reclamation of Internet numbering." This could allow governments to render websites within their borders inaccessible, even via proxy servers or other countries. It also could allow for multinational pacts in which countries could terminate access to websites at each others' request.' The move would basically undermine ICANN and decentralize control of internet addressing: 'The revision would give nations the explicit right to "implement policy" on net governance and "regulate the national Internet segment," the draft says.'"
Why shouldn't these countries have the right to allow or disallow certain kinds of information coming into or out of their country? Despite what everyone wants to believe, countries other than those that you agree with have the right to govern their people as they see fit. Other countries can of course pressure them militarily or otherwise, but the fact remains as long as they are in power they have this right. Not every country has to be pro-internet. Not every country has to be pro technology.
They don't want this... because they have it already, and are taking a big advantage of it. Most of the internet information passes already thru them, and they freely inspects everything that goes thru. Maybe there are some legal protection against abuses for US citizens (diminishing each day) but never were for foreigners.
I would prefer a way to control that isnt control, for anyone, specially including the major offender today: US.