ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):On the sidelines of the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR), in collaboration with the Community Human Rights Advocacy Centre (CHRAC), convened a seminar titled “Digital Rights and Civic Spaces.” The event brought together human rights defenders, digital rights experts, journalists, and civil society representatives to examine the shrinking civic space in conflict-affected regions, with particular focus …
KIIR holds seminar titled “Digital Rights & Civic Spaces”
ISLAMABAD, Jun 23 (APP):On the sidelines of the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR), in collaboration with the Community Human Rights Advocacy Centre (CHRAC), convened a seminar titled “Digital Rights and Civic Spaces.”
The event brought together human rights defenders, digital rights experts, journalists, and civil society representatives to examine the shrinking civic space in conflict-affected regions, with particular focus on Jammu and Kashmir, said a press release received here on Tuesday.
Participants highlighted how digital technologies, including internet shutdowns, mass surveillance systems, targeted content removal, and algorithmic censorship, are increasingly deployed to stifle peaceful dissent and obstruct the exercise of the right to self-determination — a right recognized under the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions.
Speakers noted that repeated and prolonged communications blackouts, combined with the monitoring of social media and messaging platforms, have severely restricted the ability of Kashmiris to document human rights concerns, mobilize peacefully, and engage with international mechanisms.
“Digital tools that should expand civic participation are instead being weaponized to silence voices demanding accountability and the realization of long-standing UN-recognized rights,” said a KIIR representative. “Internet restrictions and surveillance not only violate digital rights but also undermine the fundamental freedoms necessary for any meaningful exercise of self-determination.”
The seminar called for greater international scrutiny of digital repression in disputed territories, the establishment of independent monitoring mechanisms for internet governance during conflict, and the protection of civic space both online and offline. Participants urged UN member states and the Human Rights Council to address these practices as part of their ongoing review of human rights situations.
The seminar was moderated by Syed Faiz Naqashbandi. Speakers included Prof Christa, Dr Waleed Rasool, Ms Naila Altaf Kayani, and Zaffar Qurashi.
About the Organizers: The Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR) works to promote dialogue on the Kashmir dispute and human rights. The Community Human Rights Advocacy Centre (CHRAC) focused on grassroots human rights documentation and advocacy.
