Only a few weeks ago, Canada stood side by side with countries around the world in protest of ACTA. Now it's time for the world to stand with Canada, whose citizens are facing an even more immediate threat.
Put yourself in their shoes: What if your government was considering a policy that would force ISPs to provide unrestricted access to your data to law enforcement at any time, for any reason, and without a warrant? What would you do if your country's leaders were trying to rewire the Internet to support systems of constant digital surveillance? Canadians are facing these dangers in the form of Bill C-30, and Canadian Public Safety Minister Vic Toews (right) is bent on getting it passed despite strong opposition from the public.
When we asked you last week to identify the largest threats facing the internet today, the response was unequivocal: Stop online censorship, invasions of privacy, and digital surveillance (See the P.S.). C-30 is the embodiment of these fears, as it would create a closed and monitored internet. Stand up for the rights of Canadian citizens and call on the Canadian government to abandon C-30:
https://www.accessnow.org/a-license-to-snoop
Democratic governments such as Canada's should be setting an example of openness and respect for civil liberties for the world -- not taking cues from repressive regimes like Syria and Iran. The good news is that support for C-30 is starting to waver, and we can deliver the knock-out punch.
Invasion of privacy. Perpetual online surveillance. You told us that these are your greatest concerns. Now is your chance to stop them:
https://www.accessnow.org/a-license-to-snoop
With determination,
The Access Team
P.S. We asked, and you responded! Almost 15,000 of you from around the world participated in our online poll, and the results were fascinating. Go here to find out what the world is talking about when it comes to digital freedom.
SOURCES:
Toews surprised by content of online surveillance bill
Bill provokes privacy fears
Michael Geist’s FAQ on C-30
Online surveillance bill to get early committee review
Toews’ gaffes aside, Bill C-30 has real dangers
