The Law Decoder

The Law Decoder is a programme dedicated to analysing and interpreting laws relating to digital technology and digital rights in Africa. The programme publishes monthly legal analyses of African laws on cybersecurity and cybercrime, which are made available to the public on an open-access basis.

Context

Across Africa, many governments are enacting legislation on cybersecurity, cybercrime and data protection that contains vague provisions, which are regularly used to restrict freedom of expression, cut off internet access or prosecute journalists and opposition figures. Moreover, these complex laws remain incomprehensible to the average citizen, creating a disconnect between the law and the people it affects.

Approach

The programme produces monthly legal analyses, in-depth reports and advocacy briefs on African digital legislation. It helps to promote digital rights and advocate for the Malabo Convention. The recommendations produced are aimed both at public authorities, to encourage legislative reforms, and at civil society organisations, to strengthen their advocacy work.