Internet access a fundamental right

Internet connections are so common they should be classified as a legally protected human right, according to one technology expert.

Cyberspace Law and Policy Centre executive director David Vaile told The Age internet access should be protected by law. He is concerned about entertainment groups looking to cut off individual account holders due to piracy allegations.

”It’s a social inclusion question,” he said. ”The number of people who could be chucked off like this is quite huge.”

The concept of internet access as a human right has been used in Europe, with internet users in France and Greece having a legal right to access. A recent BBC survey found 79% of over 27,000 respondents in 26 countries believe internet access is a right.