With shrinking civic space, limited funding, and a general democratic decline in the EU and beyond, at-risk communities, including HRDs and exiled media, are becoming increasingly vulnerable online. Human rights defenders act as custodians of human rights. Online platforms often serve as their lifeline for accessing necessary information to continue their advocacy efforts. Nevertheless, HRDs encounter significant threats online, such as malicious cyber activities, online censorship, targeted internet shutdowns, arbitrary or unlawful online surveillance, harassment, smear campaigns, disinformation, and doxxing. While online platforms need heightened due diligence and implement adequate safeguards for HRD safety, the current state of the art remains inadequate.

The DSA Human Rights Alliance Strategic Workshop will bring together Alliance members - civil society organizations defending digital rights and communities globally- for a forward-looking, strategic session. The focus will be on refining and moving toward a final draft of the “Viennese DSA Human Rights Principles”, offering global perspectives and recommendations for a human-rights-focused enforcement of the Digital Services Act. The workshop will also reflect on the Alliance’s 2025 strategic work and how to best align the priorities of Alliance members.