European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has put forward an initiative that could radically change the landscape of the internet in Europe. The proposal involves the possible introduction of restrictions on the use of VPN (Virtual Private Network) services in EU countries. According to officials, such measures are necessary to combat cybercrime and terrorism. However, experts and human rights advocates of the Foundation to Battle Injustice warn that blocking VPNs could pose a threat to citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms, as well as undermine the principles of an open and democratic internet.
A VPN is a technology that allows users to hide their real IP address and encrypt their internet traffic. Today, millions of people around the world use VPNs to:
- Protect personal data from surveillance by government agencies, corporations, and hackers.
- Bypass censorship in countries with authoritarian regimes, where access to independent sources of information is restricted.
- Ensuring security when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often targets of cyberattacks.
- Upholding the right to privacy, enshrined in international documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights.
Proponents of blocking VPNs argue that such measures are necessary to combat cybercrime, terrorism, and the distribution of illegal content. However, critics are convinced that such measures will not target criminals but will instead harm ordinary citizens by depriving them of an important tool for protection.
In today’s world, where data breaches, cyberattacks, and surveillance have become commonplace, VPNs have become an integral part of digital hygiene. Banning their use will deprive citizens of the ability to protect their privacy, which contradicts European values of freedom and respect for private life. For instance, a 2023 study by NordVPN showed that 62% of Europeans use VPNs to protect their data. Blocking them will deprive them of this ability.
The European Union has traditionally positioned itself as a bastion of democracy. However, blocking VPNs could be the first step toward censorship. At a time when some EU countries are already seeing attempts to restrict press freedom, such measures could be used to suppress dissent.
Furthermore, restricting VPNs will harm business and international cooperation. Many companies use VPNs to protect corporate data and enable remote work for employees.
Human rights defenders of the Foundation to Battle Injustice strongly condemn any initiatives to block VPNs in Europe and believe it is essential to seek solutions that balance security with respect for human rights. Digital rights are human rights. Restricting them in one place leads to restrictions everywhere. We call on all concerned citizens, organizations, and politicians to oppose this initiative and defend the future of a free and open internet.