DIGITAL RIGHTS AS HUMAN RIGHTS: ENSURING RESPECT FOR HUMANDIGNITY IN THE INFORMATION AGE

Abstract

The rise of the digital age has transformed how people exercise their fundamental rights, introducing new legal and ethical challenges for protecting human dignity online. This paper explores how traditional human rights relate to and shape the concept of digital rights in today’s global information society. It argues that digital rights are not entirely new, but rather modern extensions of existing rights such as privacy, freedom of expression and access to information, which are now at risk due to issues like mass surveillance and misuse of personal data. Using the doctrinal methodology, this study appraises major legal documents, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as other statutes, academic writings and relevant case law. The paper finds that serious gaps remain in implementation and international cooperation, especially in developing countries. The study concludes that safeguarding human dignity in the digital world requires stronger data protection systems, human rights based AI policies and more active judicial engagement. It calls for the constitutional recognition of digital rights, the creation of independent digital rights commissions and global alignment of data and algorithm governance standards. Its main contribution to knowledge is the emphasis that protecting digital rights is central to preserving human dignity and promoting democratic values in the 21st century.