Dr Merten Reglitz, a philosophy researcher from the University of Birmingham, says internet access is now a foundation of daily life. He said, “For most of us a world without internet access is just unthinkable. We need it for our jobs, to maintain relationships, learn, access services, and to express ourselves – it is one of the most important parts of modern living.”
The internet has changed how societies function. It connects people to knowledge, gives them a voice in public conversations, and gives them to participate in everything from civic duties to personal hobbies. For millions, it has become more than a tool—it’s part of how they live and interact with the world.
Dr Reglitz argues that because the internet is woven so deeply into modern life, its availability should be seen as a fundamental right. Without it, individuals and communities miss out on many aspects of social, economic, and cultural participation.
What Would Universal Free Internet Look Like?
Not everyone has access to the internet. Some regions cannot afford the infrastructure for internet connections, and many cannot afford the cost of devices, data plans, along with reliable networks. Currently, 1/3 of the world’s population remains disconnected.
Dr Reglitz said to add, “We also have mostly unregulated social media platforms dominating the digital world and harvesting data for profit, not to mention internet users harming others online. All this infringes on our human rights including freedom of expression, privacy, and free and fair elections. A new human right would need to address this so that people would have a right to be protected from hostile actors online.”
Dr Reglitz has outlined what a fair and accessible internet could mean in practice. This vision includes affordable data plans, access to basic devices like smartphones, and reliable 4G network coverage. He also emphasises the importance of teaching digital skills to help people navigate online spaces effectively.
He said, “Despite the internet being a vital part of modern life, access is still unequal. This limits the ability of those who remain offline to fully enjoy other human rights that being online helps to facilitate, so states must provide citizens with the tools they need to get online. These requirements might not be affordable for poorer countries, but a series of minimum core obligations would help them work towards free internet access as a human right.”
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How Can This Be Achieved, According To Dr Reglitz?
Governments could make ways to try meet these goals. National broadband plans, connecting public spaces like schools and libraries could make progress possible. These measures would focus on building infrastructure and reducing the costs of connecting.
Wealthier nations and organisations might share funding or technical expertise to help others progress. This kind of teamwork could make universal internet access a realistic goal over time.
Dr Reglitz points out that the benefits of universal internet access would outweigh the costs. It would open up opportunities for education, employment, and healthcare, particularly in places where access to these resources is limited.
While it may take time, this would eventually make sure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has the ability to connect and participate in the digital world that is becoming the primary realm as time goes by.
How Could A New Human Right Protect Online Freedoms?
Dr Reglitz’ framework that is made to guarantee free and fair access while keeping users safe from censorship, surveillance, and exploitation is to create a safe online environment where people can interact without fear or restrictions.
This framework would hold both governments and private companies accountable. It would be made to prevent interference from outside forces and protect personal data. Recognising the internet as a right, he says, would mean more than just providing access— it would mean creating a space where everyone feels secure and free to engage with the world around them.
