Collision of regulatory convergence and divergence : updating policies of surveillance and information technology
Date
2001
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Publisher
Southern African Journal of Information and Communication (SAJIC), The Edge Institute / Research ICT Africa, Braamfontein, ZA
Abstract
Regulation theory rarely considers the disruptive capacity of technology, nor regulation in the sole interest of government. This paper will investigate the capacity of technology to disrupt regulatory regimes surrounding surveillance and communications infrastructure in various countries. As policy regimes are updated to meet new challenges, through the creation of new policy habitats, new powers are created despite protests and claims of technological neutrality. However, the capacity to interpret technology does not end: technology will disrupt even the new habitat, requiring renegotiation and re-settlements. Such negotiations often occur at the international level; some of these processes will be reviewed and critiqued. Considering the contingent nature of technology policy, this paper then recommends some ways forward when considering new national policies, such as the process that South Africa is about to embark on.
Description
Related to IDRC supported Research ICT Africa (RIA) projects 101584, 103114 and 105266.
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Journal Article
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Keywords
GOVERNMENT POLICY, POLICING, ELECTRONIC MAIL, PRIVACY PROTECTION, HUMAN RIGHTS, CIVIL RIGHTS, SOUTH AFRICA