Societies around the world are grappling with important debates about online privacy. In Europe, a “right to be forgotten” online has emerged to protect individual privacy, but defenders of free speech argue it has come at a cost to the free circulation of information essential to a democratic society. Now, European judges are considering whether to extend the right to be forgotten beyond Europe’s borders, potentially limiting the information available online in the Americas too. Is this a good thing? How should countries in the Americas respond? Could a decision in Europe impinge on their freedom to address the balance between privacy, accountability, and freedom of expression and information consistent with their own legal traditions? As the region fights to combat corruption, could dirty politicians begin using the right to be forgotten to whitewash their pasts? A new Dialogue report explores these questions, with a particular focus on the Latin American context, where these issues have complex implications for democracy, freedom of expression, historical memory, and accountability for corruption and human rights violations.

The Dialogue’s Peter D. Bell Rule of Law Program, the OAS Special Rapporteurship for Freedom of Expression, and the Law Faculty of the Universidad de los Andes are pleased to present this discussion on the privacy, democracy, and digital policy. Remarks will be followed by an open exchange with participants. 

Follow this event on Twitter at #DigitalROL and @The_Dialogue.

This event will be held in English and Spanish with simultaneous interpretation. A light breakfast will be served. 

Speakers

Moderator

Michael Shifter

President, Inter-American Dialogue (@MichaelShifter)