Internet as a basic right

Many European countries are currently taking steps to ensure internet access for their populations. France has declared web access a human right, and beginning in July, Finland will, by law, require that all 5.2 million citizens have access to internet connections of at least 1 megabit per second speeds. Though 95% of their population currently has access, there are many rural areas where access is limited.

In comparison, the United States has no current program to implement internet for all citizens, though the FCC is expected to submit a plan come February, to promote high-speed connections for the populace.

Access to the internet is fast becoming a right each human should be afforded. In the recent past, it could have been claimed as a privilege. This is not so with developed nations, and soon, the entire human population. The internet is more than a tool for sending electronic mail. It allows individuals from all cultures, backgrounds, nations, etc, to interact, to learn information that may otherwise be inaccessible, to collaborate. Really, when we deny someone internet access, we deny them the ability to contribute and benefit from human development.

See source article here.