Deadline: 28-Jun-20
Applications are now open for the COVID-19 Litigation Fund that supports strategic cases challenging digital rights violations committed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic that are either a direct result of responses to the pandemic or are demonstrably linked to and exacerbated by it.
Litigation challenging existing digital rights issues which have only seen limited impact from the pandemic fall outside the scope of this call. Furthermore, DFF will prioritise applications that focus on addressing the negative impact felt by the most vulnerable groups in society, who generally will have limited access to justice and experience particular hardship due to the already existing ‘digital divide’.
The COVID-19 pandemic is having an unprecedented impact on societies across the globe. Not only is it causing a significant loss of life and illness, it also has severe repercussions for human rights. As more individuals are required to practice social distancing, work or attend school from home, access social welfare online, and receive information and news through the internet, the impact of government responses to COVID-19 on digital rights is particularly pressing.
Thematic Focus Areas
Advance individuals’ ability to exercise their right to privacy
Examples are cases that:
- Protect and safeguard individuals against unjustified government surveillance;
- Clarify the scope of protection of personal data under the GDPR;
- Enforce consumers’ rights in relation to the unauthorized collection and sharing of personal data.
Protect and promote the free flow of information online.
Examples are cases that:
- Challenge the unjustified blocking, filtering and removal of online content, platforms or services
- Ensure that online content is protected against the illegitimate use of copyright claims
- Ensure that net neutrality and the principle of equal access to the internet is promoted and respected in practice
Ensure accountability, transparency and the adherence to human rights standards in the use and design of technology
Examples are cases that:
- Ensure the respect for human rights in the application of technology by law enforcement, such as in the context of predictive policing
- Maximise transparency in algorithmic decision making and profiling by government and private actors
- Set standards to protect individuals against the discriminatory use of technology
Eligibility Criteria
- Any organisation that advocates for digital rights, including as part of their broader human rights or social justice work.
- DFF accepts grant applications concerning all Council of Europe Member States.
For more information, visit https://digitalfreedomfund.org/covid-19-litigation-fund/