Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 05/2013

Freedom and Connectivity: Advancing the Freedom to Communicate in the Americas

Amy Garmer

October 2012

Aspen Institute

Abstract

This report addresses critical deficits in connectivity and the freedom to communicate in the Western Hemisphere. The report highlights connectivity, competition, censorship and protection of journalists as key areas for action and calls on government leaders to move communications issues to the top of national agendas and partner with other societal stakeholders to develop digital infrastructure, tools and human capacity. The report cites specific opportunities for action in Mexico, where a new government will be sworn in on December 1, 2012. It highlights the need for markets, regulatory and policy structures, and attitudes to "change to align with the new realities of a global digital age."