As events around the world in recent years have proven, the free flow of digital information has empowered citizens in ways never before possible, and it must be protected by policymakers, businesses, and human rights advocates.
A united approach on data is especially necessary now, as more leaders seek to control their citizens’ access to information. The threat is significant, and it should provide a strong motivation for both business groups and human rights advocates to support free and open digital trade — and in particular, the digital trade provisions in the TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership).
U.S. businesses actively sought to have the agreement include language that opposes cross-border constraints on data flows. These restrictions inhibit digital trade, impose unnecessary network costs and are often a cover for digital protectionism.
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