Is Internet Access a Fundamental Right?
Conducted by GlobeScan, the poll reveals that 87 percent of survey participants who use the Internet feel web access should be the "fundamental right of all people." Seventy-one percent of non-Internet users agreed with that statement. South Korea, Mexico and China saw the highest percentage of users who feel Net access is a fundamental right.
"Despite worries about privacy and fraud, people around the world see access to the Internet as their fundamental right," said GlobeScan Chairman Doug Miller. "They think the web is a force for good, and most don't want governments to regulate it."
As Miller hinted, most web users are very positive about the changes the Internet has brought to their lives, such as access to information, greater freedom and social networking. However, some are concerned about the potential for fraud and show caution over expressing opinions online.
Specifically, 78 percent of participants said the Internet has brought them greater freedom while 90 percent describe the web as a good place to learn, and just over half said they enjoy spending time on social-networking sites.
Forty-seven percent of participants also cited the ability to find information of all sorts as one of the aspects of the web they most valued, followed by the ability to interact and communicate with people, find entertainment, research and buy products, and create and share content.
"This goes along the lines of free speech. The Internet is the right to information access," said Rob Enderle, principal analyst at The Enderle Group. "Much like you have a right to breathe air, use water or use any other commodity, the Internet has become a commodity and citizens worldwide view...
