Amnesty to sound warning to ISPs

Amnesty International is expected to warn of the dangers of censoring and restricting the internet at the forthcoming ISPA (Internet Service Provider's Association) awards this week. Amnesty is particularly concerned about some governments colluding with major internet companies to prevent them from accessing certain websites. The Chinese government has been strongly criticised by Amnesty in the past and Kate Allen, director of Amnesty International UK and UK campaigns director Tim Hancock are both expected to speak at the awards ceremony. "The internet has revolutionised free speech and gives a voice to millions. But we must be on our guard against those who want to limit access to information and take that free speech away," said Hancock. "Web users and service providers alike have a responsibility to keep alive the things that have made the internet great - its democracy, its freedom and the way it gives people access to knowledge and the opportunity to participate and be heard," Hancock said. A campaign backed by Amnesty, Irrepressible.info, was launched in May 2006 to highlight the plight of surfers in oppressive and censorious regimes, and now has more than 60,000 members, according to Amnesty. The ceremony, which will be held in London this week, will see several awards given to ISPs that have provided their customers with the best service. The categories include Best Consumer ISP, Best Consumer Broadband and Best Wireless ISP. Web User will bring you news of the winners in the ISPA awards as soon as they are announced. http://irrepressible.info/ http://www.ispaawards.org.uk/

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