Submission to the Universal Periodic Review of the Republic of South Africa

This joint submission from APC, CALS, CIVICUS, Gender Links, Highway Africa Chair in Media and Information Society, IDASA, ODAC, Right 2 Know, SANGONet, Section27, and SERI focuses on freedom of expression, the right to information, freedom from censorship; freedom of the press, the right to privacy, and the importance of affordable access to the internet in South Africa. The submission criticizes women's underrepresentation in media ownership, and highlights the importance of safe public internet access for women, specifically marginalised women, e.g. unemployed women in rural areas.
The submission is structured as follows:
• Section B highlights concerns about universal, equitable and affordable internet access; internet penetration in South Africa, and online content diversity and language.
• Section C highlights concerns about the right to privacy and the regulation of the interception of communications.
• Section D highlights concerns about the freedom of expression and impending legislative restrictions.
• Section E highlights concerns about access to information and protections for whistle-blowers.
• Section F makes recommendations for follow up and implementation.