New York, United States (HRNW): Access Now has intensified its international advocacy for digital rights, internet freedom, and the protection of civic space following the cancellation of RightsCon 2026, one of the world’s largest global forums dedicated to human rights in the digital age. The organization has reaffirmed that, despite the cancellation of the annual summit, its work to protect digital freedoms, strengthen cybersecurity for civil society, and promote responsible technology governance will continue through regional engagement, policy advocacy, and global partnerships.
RightsCon has long served as a platform bringing together governments, technology companies, academics, journalists, human rights defenders, civil society organizations, and international institutions to discuss emerging issues including artificial intelligence, online privacy, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, internet governance, and freedom of expression. Following the cancellation of the 2026 conference, Access Now announced that it would continue supporting stakeholders through alternative forums, research initiatives, and collaborative advocacy aimed at protecting digital rights worldwide.
Access Now emphasized that digital technologies increasingly shape democratic participation, education, economic development, humanitarian action, and access to information. The organization warned that growing concerns over internet shutdowns, online surveillance, censorship, and misuse of emerging technologies require stronger international cooperation to ensure that technological innovation remains consistent with internationally recognized human rights standards.
One of the organization’s flagship initiatives, the Digital Security Helpline, continues providing rapid assistance to journalists, independent media organizations, human rights defenders, election observers, humanitarian workers, and civil society organizations facing cyber threats and digital attacks. The multilingual service offers emergency technical support, cybersecurity guidance, incident response, and digital risk assessments to organizations operating in challenging environments.
Access Now has also expanded research on artificial intelligence governance, platform accountability, online privacy, and cross-border data protection. Through policy recommendations and engagement with governments, technology companies, and international organizations, the NGO advocates for transparent regulation that balances innovation with safeguards for privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information.
In recent months, the organization has encouraged policymakers to strengthen protections against unlawful digital surveillance while promoting responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. Access Now argues that digital rights should remain central to discussions concerning technological progress, democratic governance, and sustainable development.
Founded in 2009, Access Now has become one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to defending and extending the digital rights of individuals and communities globally. Operating through regional teams and international partnerships, the organization conducts policy research, legal advocacy, digital security assistance, and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting a free, open, and secure internet for all.
Digital rights experts note that as artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and online services continue transforming societies, safeguarding privacy, cybersecurity, and freedom of expression has become increasingly important. Organizations such as Access Now continue playing a significant role in ensuring that technological advancement is accompanied by effective human rights protections and inclusive digital governance.
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Disclaimer
This HRNW news report has been prepared using publicly available information released by Access Now and other reliable public sources. It is published solely for journalistic and informational purposes. HRNW maintains complete editorial independence, and publication of this report does not necessarily imply endorsement of the views, policies, or positions of the organizations mentioned. Readers are encouraged to consult official publications for comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding programmes, advocacy initiatives, and digital rights activities.
