The brazilian civil rights framework for the internet: A pioneering experience in internet governance

Abstract

The Global Multistakeholder Meeting on the Future of Internet Governance (NETmundial) held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on April 23 and 24, 2014, confirmed Brazil's leading role in formulating progressive rules on Internet governance. On this occasion, Bill No. 12.965 - the Brazilian Internet "Bill of Rights" - passed. The bill, developed through a collaborative platform involving several sectors of civil society, became law. This chapter discusses Internet governance as it relates to the functioning of the global computer network of which Brazil has played a leading role in this process, especially after the approval of the regulatory framework which contains principles, assurances, rights, and duties for Internet users and providers in the country. The Brazilian Civil Rights Framework for the Internet is the first national legislation that works like a "Constitution" for network users. This paper outlines the influence of Brazil's Internet "Bill of Rights" on the global Internet governance debate as well as the main actors and agencies involved. The findings show Brazil as a relevant player in discussing processes about rules governing the Web.