Internet freedom is one of the top priorities of Swedish foreign policy. Everyone should be free to think and say what they want – on the internet too. This is far from the reality in many countries. Today representatives from more than 90 countries are meeting in Stockholm to discuss how internet freedom and openness can promote human rights and social and economic development worldwide.
On 22-23 May, the Stockholm Internet Forum (SIF) is being held for the second time. The conference uses an informal format that aims to promote dialogue and interaction and it draws a great deal of interest, bringing together over 400 activists, experts, politicians and representatives of business and society from more than 90 countries. More than half of this year’s participants are from middle- or low-income countries.

The number of people online is expected to jump from just under two billion to five billion within a few years. For the Swedish Government, internet freedom is a high priority...