Global Digital Compact (GDC)’s recipe for digital disaster: A pinch of censorship, a dash of control, and a heap of centralisation

On August 22, Jean Linis-Dinco, Ph.D., representing Manushya Foundation, took to the stage to address the latest draft of the Global Digital Compact (GDC). Released under a “silence procedure,” this draft has raised many concerns, prompting member states to break their silence—and for a good reason. 

Jean’s message was clear and urgent: this draft, in its current form, doesn’t just miss the mark; it risks turning the Internet into a playground for powerful interests, leaving working class people on the sidelines.  That’s why we are speaking up—because our voices matter. Our submission lays out exactly what needs to change. 

So, what’s in our submission? We’re calling out the draft for its failure to genuinely address key issues like human rights and corporate accountability. Instead of improving the situation, it’s shaping up to be a tool for reinforcing the status quo. Our submission details exactly where the draft goes wrong and why it needs a complete overhaul. 

Read our full submission here: link.  

Parralelly, Jean wrote an outstanding analysis of the third revision of the GDC, you will find it here: link.

and made a matrix to show you what changed from the third revision to the fourth one: link.

The Internet isn’t a corporate playground—so why is the GDC acting like it? 

At Manushya Foundation, we believe the Internet should be a space where everyone has a voice, not just those with the most power or money But the latest GDC draft pushes for more control and bureaucracy, shifting the Internet away from the open, decentralised space it was meant to be. This isn’t just a subtle change—it’s a threat to everything that makes the Internet a place of freedom and innovation. 

Jean pointedly stated: “The GDC’s objective to centralise Internet governance through the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology is fundamentally opposed to the qualities that have fostered the Internet's growth and resilience.”

Simply put, the draft turns the Internet into a tightly controlled, rule-heavy environment that prioritises the powerful and the elite while the rest of us are left to live in an increasingly hostile digital space. 

Corporate self-regulation: when profits come before people 

Jean didn’t shy away from criticising the draft’s heavy reliance on corporate self-regulation. Let’s be real—trusting companies to police themselves is like expecting a wolf to babysit the sheep Time and time again, this approach has failed, putting profits before people and privacy. Yet, this draft pushes that same old idea, again and again and again.

As Jean wrote: “The GDC’s softened stance on corporate accountability in the digital realm, especially surrounding data protection and technology deployment, is particularly concerning”

This isn’t just a policy misstep; it’s a deliberate choice to put everyday people last. The draft talks about cooperation and inclusivity, but its actions speak louder than words. 

Human rights: downplayed and overlooked 

One of the most alarming aspects of the GDC draft is its sidelining of human rights. Instead of centering them as the backbone of digital governance, the draft waters down their importance and undermines the role of the OHCHR (United Nations Human Rights Office). This isn’t just disappointing; it’s dangerous. 

Jean warned: “The removal of the explicit references to the principles of 'legality, necessity, proportionality, and non-discrimination' when it comes to Internet shutdowns in the fourth revision (paragraph 29d) is a betrayal of international human rights standards.”

The vague language in the draft opens the door for abuse, allowing repressive governments to twist words into justifications for their crackdowns on digital freedoms. We are already seeing this in many nations, but this time it would be fully supported by the GDC. This is not the future we want for anyone. 

The GDC needs real change 

Jean’s message was a demand for action: the GDC draft isn’t just a bureaucratic document; it’s a blueprint that could shape our digital future. And right now, it’s headed in the wrong direction. We need a draft that genuinely prioritises human rights, holds the powerful accountable, and includes the voices of those who are most affected. 

Jean put it best: “Without explicit commitments to enforce human rights standards, the GDC risks becoming yet another non-binding declaration rather than a powerful tool for change.”

Join us in the fight for digital rights that matter 🚩

This draft doesn’t have to be the end of the story. At Manushya Foundation, we’re fighting for a Global Digital Compact that truly reflects the needs and rights of all people, not just the privileged few. We believe in a digital world where everyone’s voice matters, where human rights are front and centre, and where civil society plays a key role in holding power to account. 

Now is the time to stand up for a GDC that serves the people, not just the powerful. Join us in calling for a document that doesn’t just talk about digital justice—but actually delivers it.