VOICES

In today’s increasingly informational society, digital rights have become an absolute necessity for everyone, regardless of age. Digital rights are basic human rights transposed to the digital realm: the right to access, use, create and publish digital content, as well as the right to privacy and freedom of expression.

Fundamental Digital Rights

Right to Access 

• The ability to connect to the internet and digital technologies 
• Access to digital literacy education 
• Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities 

Right to Privacy 

• Control of the collection, storage and processing of personal data 
• Protection from unwarranted surveillance 

Right to Freedom of Expression 

• Sharing opinions and ideas online without censorship 
• Creating and publishing content 
• Participating in online communities and discussions 

Right to Safety 

• Protection from harassment, bullying, and exploitation 
• Security from hacking and identity theft 
• Age-appropriate online environments for children

Digital Rights for Students

As a Keys student, you have certain digital rights as part of our educational community: 

Academic Rights 

• Equal access to digital learning tools 
• Fair treatment in online classroom environments 
• Privacy protection for your educational records and data 

Participation Rights 

• The right to contribute to online class discussions 
• The ability to express opinions respectfully in digital forums 
• Opportunities to develop and share creative digital content 

Protection Rights 

• Safeguards against cyberbullying and online harassment
• Support systems when negative online interactions occur 
• Education about digital safety and privacy

Digital Responsibilities

With rights come responsibilities. Digital citizens should: 

• Don't break anyone's privacy; always ask permission before posting stuff that involves them.
• Create and share content responsibly and ethically.
• Report harmful content and behaviors. 
• Verify information before sharing it. 
• Engage in an open discussion, especially with people of different points of view.

Advocating for Digital Rights

It's the first step to protecting your digital rights. You can work for your digital rights by: 

• Speaking up when you see violations of digital rights. 
• Supporting organizations that promote internet freedom and digital equality. 
• Making informed choices about the digital services you use. 

To that end, we at Keys School Manila are dedicated to helping to create an environment where children have digital rights and digital citizenship are valued and applied thoughtfully. Let’s empower each other to be ethical and thoughtful digital citizens.

“Living in a Digital World” is a blog series which features Keys School Manila’s insights and tips on navigating digital tools which will allow students, teachers, and parents to uphold responsible media and technology literacy. This blog is the fourth in the series.