Our Current Areas of Work
Key Achievements 2023-2025
Challenging Digital Authoritarianism in Southeast Asia
Since 2023, the Clinic has been researching digital authoritarianism and human rights in Southeast Asia, publishing findings and exchanging insights through seminars. Partnering with human rights organizations and networks, we address government-imposed restrictions on digital freedoms through legal support and expert discussions. In 2025, we plan to continue expanded our efforts by participating in global forums, co-hosting case discussions, and organizing academic seminars.
Research Papers
We examine digital authoritarianism in Southeast Asian countries such as Myanmar, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, analyzing national laws, case precedents, and legal journals. Our findings are assessed through the framework of international human rights standards, offering a critical perspective on the region’s legal landscape.
Women on Web Litigation
We supported litigation efforts challenging the blocking of the Women on Web website in South Korea. In collaboration with Law Firm BOM, the clinic assisted in drafting the appellate brief and a constitutional complaint, arguing procedural flaws in the government's decision, the legality of abortion-related information, and violations of proportionality and constitutional principles. Additionally, the Clinic co-hosted a virtual case round with UC Irvine Law School, where legal and international human rights perspectives on the case were discussed.
S4D3
Several Southeast Asian countries suppress journalists and human rights activists through defamation laws and fake news regulations, while restricting internet access and usage. Governments also curtail free expression by exploiting misinformation and hate speech on social media. In response to the rise of digital authoritarianism in the region, S4D3 brought together civil society leaders and clinic members to build a global network and explore strategies for countering censorship and access restrictions in collaboration with internet service providers and big tech companies.
Expert Seminars
In collaboration with the Internet Law Clinic and other partners, we host expert lectures on digital rights, privacy, and international human rights. These sessions explore government regulations on online free expression, information control, and the broader impact of digital technologies on human rights. By engaging legal scholars, technologists, and human rights advocates, the Clinic fosters in-depth discussions on emerging challenges and policy solutions in the digital space.
