21st Century Censorship

Over the last decade, the Internet has grown exponentially, a shell of its once simple and innocent self. Today, the Internet is a global power player - as important as any medium - because it delivers news and consumer feedback on a historically unprecedented level. Unfortunately, the privileges we as Americans have while searching the Internet are not enjoyed in countries where free speech is closely monitored. One such country where Internet free speech is watched in an Orwellian fashion may surprise you: France, the country that gave an infantile United States the Statue of Liberty, the ultimate symbol of freedom.

In 2009, Dominique Broueilh, a French mother and homemaker, was sued by Nadine Morano, France's Secretary of State, for negative comments she had posted online. Ms. Morano claimed that Mrs. Broueilh had publicly insulted a member of the ministry, a charge that carried a maximum fine of $18,000. What is even more outrageous in this sad story is the fact that Ms. Morano subpoenaed Ms. Broueilh's Internet address and obtained her identity without her knowledge. Truly frightening stuff...

But even in France, a nation that prides itself as a liberal democracy, freedom - in this case, one's freedom of speech - is under attack because French citizens, for the first time in France's history, are holding politicians accountable. According to Frédéric Dabi, a French commentator and public opinion director, the Internet is "changing the relationship between the politician and his fellow citizen." However, French government officials have not yet learned how to take constructive criticism, even when it is much deserved. As Henri Guaino, one of President Nicolas Sarkozy's closest counselors, said: "We can no longer say anything, we can no longer do anything. It's absolute transparency - it's the beginning of totalitarianism!" While Mr. Guaino is grossly exaggerating the negative effects of the Internet on French politics, he is correct in believing that politics is now transparent in society.

As an American citizen, I have taken for granted my ability to call politicians out on their bullshit, something vocally eager French citizens are now doing with increasing determination. American citizens, take comfort in the anonymity of the Internet, and constantly exercise your right to speak out against unfavorable governmental policies. It's a good practice for a 21st Century Democracy...