The Role of Internet Policies in Shaping Sustainable Development, Democracy, and Social Justice in Cameroon

Abstract

A dynamic interplay among government policies, digital rights, and the socio-political environment characterizes Cameroon’s digital landscape. This interaction has a significant impact on the country’s sustainable development, democracy, and social justice. As cyberspace becomes increasingly integral to global communication, commerce, and defense, applying international law, including human rights law, to this domain is both necessary and challenging. Human rights in the Internet age extend to critical information infrastructures and, hence, impact democracy, social justice, political stability, and individual freedoms. In an increasingly digital age, internet access has become a foundational pillar for personal empowerment, economic progress, and civic engagement. However, Cameroon’s internet governance often prioritizes national security and governmental control over citizens’ rights, resulting in frequent internet shutdowns, censorship, and violations of digital freedoms. Most policies lack democratic accountability mechanisms, leaving digital rights vulnerable in a grey area between national security and privacy. Hence, the twin claims of digital equality and national security pose a significant issue in this era of computer technologies. This article argues that developing digital rights and internet policies that incorporate human rights considerations is crucial for ensuring sustainable development, fostering democracy, and promoting social justice in Cameroon.