Principles on Freedom of Expression and Privacy

Throughout the world, companies in the Information & Communications Technology (ICT) sector face growing government pressure to comply with domestic laws and policies in ways that may conflict with the internationally recognized human rights of privacy and freedom of expression. In response, a diverse coalition of organizations has launched the Global Network Initiative, which seeks to establish guidelines for resisting government efforts seeking to enlist companies in acts of censorship and surveillance. Microsoft is collaborating with other companies, investors, civil society organizations, and academics to establish and implement Principles on Freedom of Expression and Privacy. These principles are based on internationally recognized laws and standards for human rights.