Digital rights are at risk, youth must resist against govt: Bilawal

PPP chairman says youth must stand firm in the face of government's attempts to curb their rights

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has stated that the digital space is under threat, and young people will have to resist the government’s efforts to control high-speed internet and digital rights, Express News reported.

Speaking at an event at IBA Sukkur on Tuesday, Bilawal stressed that the youth must stand firm in the face of government attempts to curb their rights.

He expressed pride in the foundation of the university, noting that it was established by his late mother, Benazir Bhutto. "This seed has now grown into a tree with global recognition, an esteemed institution that attracts students from across Pakistan," he said.

Bilawal highlighted the government's tendency to centralise control, warning that authorities would attempt to regulate everything, including educational institutions and individual freedoms. "The youth must resist these efforts and ensure they have access to their rights," he urged.

"Every generation has fought for its rights. Democracy was not a gift; it was won through struggle," Bilawal added. He pointed out that young people have consistently been at the forefront of movements, from the colonial era to modern times, triumphing over oppression.

He also referred to the eras of General Zia-ul-Haq and General Pervez Musharraf, noting that although these were difficult periods, the current digital space is especially under threat.

Bilawal stressed that technology plays a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s economy. "To turn Pakistan into a $1 trillion economy, we must free up our tax sector and ensure that every citizen has access to high-speed internet," he stated.

"The younger generation must lead the fight for digital rights, through peaceful and democratic means. We must legally secure the right to high-speed internet for all," he added. He further stressed that data privacy is a fundamental right.

He urged the students to send their suggestions and demands for a Digital Bill of Rights, vowing to join forces in pushing for change. "We will make these demands clear to the outdated politicians in Islamabad, who are clueless about social media, WhatsApp, streaming websites, and gaming," he concluded.