During the 53^rd Regular Session of the Human Rights Council (HRC), which took place from June 19 to July 14, 2023, the HRC adopted an updated two existing resolutions on “Civil Society Space” and “New and emerging digital technologies and human rights,” with important safeguards for fundamental freedoms and civil society in the digital age. The HRC recognizes that in many countries, fundamental freedoms are facing attacks both online and offline, as governments are using digital surveillance, internet shutdowns, and restrictions on funding against civil society actors. The HRC also notes for the first time that there is a need to adequately regulate new and emerging technologies that can impact human rights. Both HRC Resolutions task the UN Office of the Human Rights Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to undertake further consultations and prepare reports to follow up on their respective thematic focus.

Learn more about the Resolutions here.