(No.136) Free cross-border flow of Internet traffic Freedom of
expression and free flow of information: how do legal framework,
regulations, and principles impact this? International law
provides for the exercise and enjoyment of the right to freedom
of expression and access to information regardless of frontiers.
Being a global network the Internet enables and facilitates the
flows of information, content and services as well as people’s
communications across borders. In this context it is considered
important to have a free and unimpeded flow of Internet traffic.
Part of the challenge in this area lies with the fact that there
are differences in national regulatory and policy frameworks and
approaches. How do legal requirements on providers of services
or of essential numbering and addressing resources inhibit
cross-border flows initiated by users of those services and
resources? What is the impact on free flows of traffic and
information where ISPs/electronic service providers are demanded
to act against t