National Assembly Research Service critical of proposed Internet ‘real name system’

Posted on : 2008-09-16 12:55 KST Modified on : 2019-10-19 20:29 KST
Gov’t should protect anonymity of cyberspace rather than promote system that could destroy freedom of expression, report says
 which many say will stifle freedom of expression on the Net.
which many say will stifle freedom of expression on the Net.

The National Assembly Research Service released yesterday a report raising doubts as to the effectiveness of a “comprehensive real name system for the Internet” currently being pushed by the government and Grand National Party.

Through its report entitled “Points of Contention of the Internet Real Name System,” NARS said that arguments by netizens and many experts that the system, which would make mandatory the use of real names on material posted on the Internet, could destroy freedom of expression and the culture of free debate in cyberspace were persuasive. It said many were skeptical as to whether it was desirable to regulate the Internet by law or policy.

About government plans to expand the use of an Internet ID confirmation system, the report issued a negative opinion, saying the government needs to make clear a concrete concept for the real-name system and hold deeper discussions about its scope, methods and strength.

The report said that besides China, no major country -- including other OECD member states -- has comprehensive Internet posting regulations like the Internet real name system and that most of these countries consider the freedom to express oneself anonymously to be important. In the case of the United States, it said, laws forcing the use of real names are viewed as restrictions on the freedom of expression.

The report said that rather than regulating the Internet through laws and systems, the government needs to create an atmosphere in which it could protect the openness and anonymity of cyberspace based on autonomy and responsibility through the creation of a healthy cyber culture and media education for netizens.

The National Assembly Research Service is an organization that assists parliamentary activity by researching matters pertaining to legislation and policy and provides relevant information and data to National Assembly standing committees and lawmakers.

Please direct questions or comments to [englishhani@hani.co.kr]

Most viewed articles