Digital Rights Weekly | May 26 - 30

Thu May 29 16:06:57 CEST 2025

Hello Digital Rights Defenders!

Here is your weekly update on digital rights around the world for the week of May 26 - 30. As a reminder, you can submit your news for the newsletter here:
https://www.digitalrights.community/weekly-newsletter

What is in this issue:

Team CommUNITY
Community News
NEW Job Opportunities
Community Resources
Digital Rights in the Wider World
Statements from Our Community
Events Calendar
Grants, Fellowships, & Awards

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### Team CommUNITY (TCU News) ###
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1. Global Gathering Deadline Extended to June 20!

We have extended the Call for Applications for the 2025 Global Gathering (GG) to June 20. Join us in Estoril, Portugal, from September 8–10, for three days of networking and collaboration on the most urgent technology-related challenges affecting human rights, civil society, and journalists at local, regional, and global levels. Apply now:

https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/2025-global-gathering-application

2. Open Culture Foundation: Getting to Know Their Work in Open Tech and Transparency in Taiwan

The Open Culture Foundation (OCF) is composed of several Taiwan-based open technology communities. We spoke with their Research Manager, Chia-Shuo Tang, to learn more about their challenges and current projects, including Defending and Documenting Digital Threats for Human Rights Defenders in Taiwan, and Public Money, Public Code.

https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/community-series-open-culture-foundation

3. Upcoming Digital Rights Town Halls and Community Knowledge Shares:

June 5 |  What is Happening in Digital Rights Around the World? (Glitter Meetup)
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_5_2025_GM

June 12 | Digitized Divides: Revealing The Trade-offs of a Tech-dependent World
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_12_2025_GM

Junio 18 | Tecnologías para la Autonomía: Construyendo Redes Comunitarias en América Latina (Digital Rights LATAM Meetup)
https://digitalrights.formstack.com/forms/cks_latam_junio_2025

June 19 | 2025 Global Gathering Ask Me Anything (AMA)
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_19_2025_GM

June 26 | The Social Networking Glitter Meetup
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_26_2025_GM

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### Community News ###
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1. AI Security Institute Challenge Fund

The Challenge Fund will award grants of up to £200,000 per project to address pressing, unresolved questions in AI safety and security. Researchers worldwide can access grants for innovative research in fields such as cyber-attacks and AI misuse. Applicants must be affiliated with UK or international academic institutions, research bodies, or relevant non-profit organisations, as defined in the Eligibility Statement. This is a rolling basis application:

https://www.aisi.gov.uk/grants#challenge-fund

2. Virtual School on Internet Governance

The Virtual School on Internet Governance is pleased to announce their 13th English cohort starting on September 9, 2025. This is a free online hybrid course which accommodates the busy schedules of post secondary school adults. Contact Glenn McKnight at info at virtualsig.org if you have any questions. Review its speakers list for Group M and register:

https://www.virtualsig.org/2025/05/17/open-now-group-m-registration/

3. Outline Users: Share Your Feedback to Inform New Features!

Outline, a free and open-source circumvention tool developed by Google’s Jigsaw team, is seeking participants for a 45 minute interview to explore new connection features. If you have used the Outline Client app on iPhone or Android or desktop for at least 2 months, we want to hear from you! Stipends will be provided for selected participants. To express interest, please complete the eligibility survey by June 4:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfA6JU9wLLi-y3fv84ERXbywGO8ZMQG4JP5F2EyCApZDyxilA/viewform

4. Oniux: Tor Project Groundbreaking Tool for Secure Linux Application Communication

The Tor Project released Oniux, a game-changing security tool that uses Linux namespaces to force all application traffic through Tor. Unlike traditional solutions, Oniux provides kernel-level isolation that prevents even accidental data leaks. Perfect for journalists, researchers, and privacy advocates who need rock-solid traffic isolation.

https://www.security.land/oniux-tor-project-groundbreaking-tool-for-secure-linux-application-communication/

5. What Changes When Connectivity is Centred on the Community? Hear Local Voices in The New Season of Routing for Communities Podcast

APC launches the second season of the Routing for Communities podcast. In the first of four episodes, they take a deep dive into community-centred connectivity initiatives and learn more about the self-definition of what meaningful means for these communities in different life contexts.

https://www.apc.org/en/node/40675/

6. Journalist Assistance Network to Address Growing Need for Legal, Safety, Immigration Resources

Five leading U.S. press freedom groups have launched the Journalist Assistance Network to provide legal, safety, and immigration support to journalists and newsrooms. The founding organizations—CPJ, FPF, IWMF, PEN America, and RCFP—report a surge in help requests since the November 2024 election, including needs related to digital security, legal risks, and newsgathering.

https://freedom.press/about/announcements/us-press-freedom-groups-launch-journalist-assistance-network/

7. Seeding Change: Feminist Science Fiction From Abya Yala

In October 2024, APC gathered a group of artists and activists, many of whom had never before written science fiction, gathered in an online workshop to create stories that reimagined the future: Una Bolsa de Semillas ("A Bag of Seeds"). In the matter of a few weeks, these writers from different parts of Latin America shaped a collection of stories that aimed to disrupt the traditional forms of science fiction. Read more on APC's Seeding Change column:

https://www.apc.org/en/node/40677/

8. Reports From Our Community:

a) The US’s Immigration Crackdown Is Built on AI Surveillance

US officials have revealed that they would use AI to revoke the visas of “foreign nationals who appear to support Hamas or other designated terrorist groups.” The program, known as "Catch and Revoke," will scan social media accounts and plans to collect the identifiers of more than 33 million people, including those applying for permanent residence or adjustment of immigration status.

https://freedomhouse.org/article/trumps-immigration-crackdown-built-ai-surveillance-and-disregard-due-process

b) MENA Open Governments: Emancipation for Some, Exclusion for Others

MENA governments are rapidly adopting digital governance, but weak oversight risks turning these tools into instruments of exclusion, surveillance, and data exploitation, disproportionately harming vulnerable communities across the region.

https://timep.org/2025/05/14/open-government-emancipation-for-some-exclusion-for-others/

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### NEW Job Opportunities  ###
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✎ Tech Investigations Editor | Lighthouse Reports
+ Remote or Hybrid
https://apply.workable.com/lighthouse-reports-2/j/C6E908154D/

✎ Executive Director | The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre
+ Remote
https://bhrrc.bamboohr.com/careers/97

✎ Communications Manager | Digital Action
+ Remote
https://digitalaction.co/join-our-team/

✎ Data Operations Manager | Anthropic
+ San Francisco, CA, USA
https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/anthropic/jobs/4606182008

✎ Director of Digital Suppression/Women’s Rights Program | Center for Intimacy Justice
+ Remote (US, EU, or UK Preferred)
https://www.intimacyjustice.org/careers
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### Community Resources  ###

1. Building a Career in Public Interest Technology Guide

Check out All Tech Is Human’s new guide which provides a broad overview of Public Interest Technology (PIT), including sample roles, key characteristics, links to additional resources, 22 PIT organizations to get involved with, 24 PIT leaders to follow on LinkedIn, 14 recommended PIT books, as well as strategies, recommendations, and ways to stay engaged in this rapidly evolving field.

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGnD9juJGQ/X0owb1TSzR7TBaE0jnczqg/view?utm_content=DAGnD9juJGQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h326023de3b

2. For Media Professionals: How We’re Using AI

In a collaboration between CJR and the University of Southern California’s AI for Media and Storytelling Initiative, they asked a diverse group of reporters, editors, executives, and others across the news industry: How does your work involve AI, for good or ill? When do you welcome AI into your work and when do you protect your work from it? Read their insights and advice on how to engage—and where to draw the line.

https://www.cjr.org/feature-2/how-were-using-ai-tech-gina-chua-nicholas-thompson-emilia-david-zach-seward-millie-tran.php

3. Reclaiming Syria’s Digital Future

Syria, once considered one of the most dangerous countries for internet use due to heavy surveillance, censorship, and repression under Bashar al-Assad, now faces a critical turning point following the regime’s fall in late 2024. Syrians see an opportunity to build a free, open, and safe digital space after years of online oppression. Yet, beyond infrastructure and sanctions relief, true progress will require comprehensive policy reforms to dismantle the legacy of digital repression and establish a foundation for a connected, rights-respecting digital future.

https://www.accessnow.org/syria-sanctions-digital-future/

4. Ciberseguridad en Nuestras Propias Palabras

Revisa las reflexiones recopiladas de la jornada "Ciberseguridad en nuestras propias palabras", que fue desarrollada por OEA junto a la Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores y el Instituto Nacional de los Pueblos Indígenas de México. El documento está pensado para acompañar a niñas, niños y adolescentes indígenas en el uso seguro y consciente de internet.

https://www.oas.org/fpdb/press/Ciberseguridad-en-nuestras-propias-palabras-esp-042025.pdf

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### Digital Rights in the Wider World ###
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1. Three Months In: Survey Reveals Deepening Impact of U.S. Aid Freeze on Global Organizations

A relaunched survey conducted between May 1 and 18 reveals how the impact of the US government’s aid freeze on organizations has evolved over the past three months and highlights urgent needs in a rapidly shifting development landscape. The majority of affected organizations are headquartered in the U.S., Kenya, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), or operate globally/remotely. One-third of these organizations report being at imminent risk of closure, while 54% are actively exploring mergers or restructuring, and another 54% have already furloughed or laid off staff.

https://accountability-lab.prowly.com/404189-survey-results-impact-on-organizations-3-months-later

2. Homegrown Digital Road Maps Turn Into Lifelines for West Bank’s Palestinians

Community-built tech solutions are helping Palestinians navigate blockades and risks in the Israel-occupied territory. With movement shackled by a complex web of Israeli checkpoints and barriers, homegrown mapping solutions have become lifelines. These digital networks help Palestinians reach work, schools, and hospitals as blockades have continued to increase since the latest Israel-Gaza war started in October 2023.

https://restofworld.org/2025/palestinians-digital-maps-west-bank-israel/

3. Senado en México Busca Aprobar Con Premura y Sin Discusión Nueva Ley Telecom que Vulnera la Libertad de Expresión

El nuevo proyecto de ley de Telecomunicaciones y Radiodifusión en México establece un régimen de control gubernamental del ejecutivo sobre la asignación del espectro radioeléctrico, las concesiones y la supervisión. Entre las problemáticas en el cuerpo de la ley se vislumbra que se administre el espectro radioeléctrico y se otorguen concesiones bajo consideraciones políticas y no de interés público, permitiendo retirar concesiones a aquellos medios de comunicación independientes y críticos.

https://articulo19.org/senado-busca-aprobar-con-premura-y-sin-discusion-nueva-ley-telecom-que-vulnera-la-libertad-de-expresion/

4. Vietnam Orders Internet Providers to Block Telegram

Vietnam has instructed the country’s internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to the messaging platform, Telegram, accusing the app of failing to cooperate with efforts to tackle alleged illegal activities conducted by its users.

https://www.telecomreviewasia.com/news/policy-news/13471-vietnam-orders-internet-providers-to-block-telegram/

5. Tanzania Shuts Down Access to X again, Marking Second Blockade in Under a Year

The Tanzanian government reportedly restricted access to the X platform (formerly Twitter), raising concerns about digital freedoms. NetBlocks confirmed the disruption on May 20, 2024, indicating service providers nationwide blocked the platform. Critics highlight increasing digital censorship in Tanzania, evidenced by its tightening regulations since 2017.

https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/tanzania-shuts-down-access-to-x-again-marking-second-blockade-in-under-a-year/we62fcd

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### Events Calendar ###
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DRAPAC Series: Human Rights Responsibilities and Challenges for Tech Companies Operating in Authoritarian Countries
EngageMedia
May 30, 2025
1pm - 2:30pm Bangkok time (UTC+7)
https://engagemedia.org/2025/drapac-series-12-human-rights-tech-companies/

South-to-South AI Accountability CoLab
The Pulitzer Center
June - July, 2025
https://pulitzercenter.org/south-south-ai-accountability-colabs-peer-learning-circle

What is Happening in Digital Rights Around the World? (Glitter Meetup)
Team CommUNITY
June 5, 2025
9am EDT /1pm UTC
Online
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_5_2025_GM

How does a Resilient Civil Society Defend Democracy Against Information Operations of Authoritarian Regimes
Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom - Global Innovation Hub
Brussels
June 12, 2025
9am GMT+2
https://www.freiheit.org/taiwan/register-our-panel-june-12-how-does-resilient-civil-society-defend-democracy-against

Digitized Divides: Revealing The Trade-offs of a Tech-dependent World (Glitter Meetup)
Team CommUNITY
June 12, 2025
9am EDT /1pm UTC
Online
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_12_2025_GM

Tecnologías para la Autonomía: Construyendo Redes Comunitarias en América Latina (Digital Rights LATAM Meetup)
Team CommUNITY
June 18, 2025
5:30pm EDT / 9:30pm UTC
Online
https://digitalrights.formstack.com/forms/cks_latam_junio_2025

2025 Global Gathering Ask Me Anything (AMA) (Glitter Meetup)
Team CommUNITY
June 19, 2025
9am EDT /1pm UTC
Online
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_19_2025_GM

The Social Networking Glitter Meetup
Team CommUNITY
June 26, 2025
9am EDT /1pm UTC
Online
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=June_26_2025_GM

2025 Oxford Media Policy Summer Institute
Jesus College, Oxford
July 28 - August 8, 2025
https://www.law.ox.ac.uk/oxford-media-policy-summer-institute

HOPE_16
August 15 - 17, 2025
St. John's University in Queens, New York City, and online
https://hope.net/

The Digital Rights Asia-Pacific Assembly (DRAPAC)
August 26 - 27, 2025
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
https://drapac.net/25/

Online Course: Threat Sharing and Digital Forensics from a Feminist and Human Rights Perspective
Digital Defenders Partnership
September - December, 2025
https://www.digitaldefenders.org/online-course-threat-sharing-and-digital-forensics-from-a-feminist-and-human-rights-perspective/

Global Gathering 2025
Team CommUNITY
September 8 - 10, 2025
Estoril, Portugal
https://www.digitalrights.community/blog/2025-global-gathering-application

MyData 2025 Conference
Helsinki
September 24 - 26, 2025
https://conference.mydata.org/2025

Hold Before You Send It
Digihub Africa 2025
October 8 - 9, 2025
Johannesburg, South Africa
https://www.digihubafrica.org/events/

SEEDIG Youth School 2025
October 10 - 11, 2025
Athens, Greece
https://seedig.net/youth-school/

Bread&Net
SMEX
October 29 - 31
Beirut, Lebanon
https://www.breadandnet.org/en/

Mozilla Festival 2025
November 7 - 9, 2025
In Barcelona, Spain
https://www.mozillafestival.org/en/

Check out a list of our virtual events here:
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Calendar_of_Events

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### Grants, Fellowships, & Awards ###
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The following opportunities are open to individual digital rights defenders and to organizations. If you would like us to include a grant, fellowship or award in this newsletter, please email details to team at digitalrights.community
https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Fundraising_Opportunities

Omidyar Network's Reporters in Residence (Summer 2025)
Deadline to apply: May 30, 2025
https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/omidyarnetwork/jobs/6848749

Global Agrifood Innovation Challenge 2025
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Deadline: June 7, 2025
https://unfao.brightidea.com/GlobalAgriInnoChallenge2025

Spyware Accountability Initiative Call for Proposals
Deadline: June 13, 2025
https://stopspyware.fund/apply

DDP's Sustainable Protection Fund for East Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia
Deadline: June 13, 2025
https://www.digitaldefenders.org/sustainable-protection-fund-open-call-for-applications-from-eecca-2025/

Sustainable Protection Fund for East Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia
Digital Defenders Partnership
Deadline: June 13, 2025
https://www.digitaldefenders.org/sustainable-protection-fund-open-call-for-applications-from-eecca-2025/

Tech For Good Investment for Startups
Bethnal Green Ventures
Deadline: June 15, 2025
https://www.bethnalgreenventures.com/apply

EU Action Grants: Detecting Influence Campaigns and Boosting Societal Resilience
Deadline: June 16, 2025
https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/funding/detecting-influence-campaigns-and-boosting-societal-resilience

EU Action Grants: Boosting the Visibility of Fact-checking Content in Europe
Deadline: June 16, 2025
https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/funding/boosting-visibility-fact-checking-content-europe

Digital Good Research Fund ‘Building the Digital Good’
Deadline: June 26, 2025
https://digitalgood.net/digital-good-research-fund-round-3-building-the-digital-good-call-for-applications/

Grants for Investigative Stories
Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN)
Deadline: June 30, 2025
https://birn.eu.com/news-and-events/birn-invites-journalists-to-apply-for-grants-for-investigative-stories/

Connecting the Unconnected Funding Program
Internet Society
Deadline 2nd window: from 15 July to 27 August, 2025
https://www.internetsociety.org/funding-areas/connecting-the-unconnected

Are you looking for grants, fellowships and funds open on a rolling basis? We curate a long list of opportunities on our wiki: https://wiki.digitalrights.community/index.php?title=Fundraising_Opportunities

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If you have any questions or want to learn more about partnerships, get in touch at team at digitalrights.community. We are always looking for like-minded organizations and people.

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www.digitalrights.community
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