------------------------------ Date: 24 Feb 1994 11:44:39 U From: "Brian Martin" Subject: File 5--Cyberspace against repression: some suggestions ((MODERATORS' NOTE: Brian Martin sends the following post over for comment. It's part of an on-going project, and he's looking for substantive feedback to help shape the ideas and suggestions. Readers can reply to him directly)). CYBERSPACE AGAINST REPRESSION: SOME SUGGESTIONS PREAMBLE Communications are crucially important in nonviolent resistance to repression, which includes intimidation, imprisonment, torture and murder by governments. Network means of communication, including telephone, short-wave and CB radio as well as computer networks, are generally best for a popular nonviolent resistance to aggression and repression. Mass media, by contrast, actually make it easier for an aggressor to take power; they are often the first targets for takeover in a coup. Computer networks can be used to send alerts about human rights violations, to mobilise opposition to oppressors and to provide information to activists. In addition, computer networks themselves may need to be defended against repressive governments. AIM To prepare computer networks and users to maintain open communication channels that can be used against repression. SUGGESTED PRINCIPLES * All methods used should be nonviolent. * Suitable action should be worked out by the participants, not by uncritical adherence to rules. The key is the aim of ending repression. The points below are suggestions only. SUGGESTIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL ACTION * Make back-ups of all crucial information, including data and addresses. Keep copies in secure places, perhaps including another country. * Build trust with others, near and far. Trusted others are the most reliable allies in action against repression. * Learn and practise encryption. * Use other media besides computer networks, such as telephone, short-wave radio, fax and face-to-face discussions! Don't rely on a single communications medium. * Set up contingency plans for what you will do in case of an emergency, either a threat to you or a threat to someone else. Practise using them. SUGGESTIONS FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION * Work with system administrators and others to configure local computer systems in the most suitable way to oppose repression, ensure access, deal with emergencies, etc. * Liaise with groups opposing repression, such as Amnesty International. * Organise workshops and discussion groups on learning networking skills, including both technical and social dimensions. * Set up contingency plans with others you trust for action in case of an emergency. Run simulations. * Push for network-wide policies that help struggles against repression, such as secure encryption, facilities available to the public (for example, in libraries), user-friendly technologies and low prices for basic services and equipment. * Link network actions with other actions against repression, including rallies, boycotts, strikes, etc. REFERENCES Schweik Action Wollongong. "Telecommunications for nonviolent struggle," Civilian-Based Defense: News & Opinion, Vol. 7, No. 6, August 1992, pp. 7-10. (available electronically on request from b.martin@uow.edu.au) Brian Glick, War at Home: Covert Action against U.S. Activists and What We Can Do about It (Boston: South End Press, 1989). CONTACT Send comments to Brian Martin, Department of Science and Technology Studies, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia, phone: +61-42-287860 home, +61-42-213763 work, fax: +61-42-213452, e-mail: b.martin@uow.edu.au. This version 24 February 1994. =+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+ + END THIS FILE + +=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+===+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=+=