The role of Internet Service Providers in protecting digital rights

Abstract

This dissertation is motivated by the need to comprehend the role of private players in regulating internet activity, how it alters states' security activities, and impacts human rights. Particularly, this research focuses on Internet Service Providers' role in preserving digital rights, with the Organisation of American States and the European Union serving as cases of study. The comparative analysis examines the liability regimes developed in both regions and how they interact with human rights legislation, copyright protection and national security obligations. The aim is to explore the legal burden of ISPs in the digital sphere and comprehend how their actions impact citizens' freedoms. The findings provide an overview of the condition of internet governance in the Americas and Europe, the priorities that shaped the current legislation and the most pressing challenges ahead. Keywords Internet Service Providers, Digital Rights, Liability Regime, digital Governance, Data Protection, Net Neutrality