March 12

World Day Against Cyber Censorship

An awareness observance on March 12 rallying support for a single, unrestricted internet accessible to all and drawing attention to government online censorship and restrictions on free speech.

Yearly Date
March 12
Category
Tech
Founding Entity

Reporters Without Borders (RSF)

First Observed
2008
Origin

Institutional Initiative

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) launched World Day Against Cyber Censorship on March 12, 2008, to rally support for an unrestricted internet and highlight governments' efforts to censor online free speech. RSF partnered with Amnesty International and created the annual Netizen Prize.

Institutional Record
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Last updated February 26, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

Get ready to stand up for your right to freedom of expression on World Day Against Cyber Censorship, which falls on March 12! This day was first observed in 2008 by Reporters Without Borders, an international non-profit organization that advocates for freedom of the press. It aims to raise awareness about the growing issue of online censorship and the importance of access to information for a free society. So let's use this day as an opportunity to speak out against any form of censorship and support those who are fighting for internet freedom around the world!

World Day Against Cyber Censorship Timeline

1989
Invention of the Web
British computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web, marking the beginning of the internet as we know it today.
1996
Communication Decency Act
The US passes the Communication Decency Act, prompting debates on online censorship and Internet freedom.
2006
Google in China
Google complies with China's online censorship demands, sparking worldwide controversy over internet freedom.
2008
First Cyber Censorship Day
World Day Against Cyber Censorship is first observed by Reporters Without Borders to raise awareness about online censorship.
2010
Arab Spring Uprisings
The Arab Spring uprisings highlight the role of the Internet in mobilizing societal change, but also the risks of cyber censorship...
2016
Fighting Fake News
The proliferation of "Fake News" prompts new discussions about internet freedom and the role of platforms in moderating content.
2020
Pandemic Information Control
The COVID-19 pandemic prompts unprecedented information control measures online across numerous countries.

How to Celebrate World Day Against Cyber Censorship

1

Spread awareness on social media

Use the power of social media to educate others about cyber censorship and its impact on freedom of speech. Share informative articles, statistics, and personal stories to raise awareness.

2

Attend a protest or rally

Join a protest or rally in your area to show your support for free and open access to information online. You can also organize your own event and invite others to participate.

3

Write to government officials

Write letters or emails to your local and national government representatives expressing your concerns about cyber censorship and advocating for internet freedom. Your voice can make a difference.

4

Host a film screening

Organize a screening of a documentary or movie that highlights the issue of cyber censorship and its effects. This can be a powerful way to start conversations and raise awareness.

5

Support organizations fighting against cyber censorship

Donate to or volunteer at organizations and initiatives that are actively working towards combating cyber censorship and promoting internet freedom for all.

Why World Day Against Cyber Censorship is Important

A

It promotes free speech and expression

World Day Against Cyber Censorship highlights the importance of having unrestricted access to information and the freedom to express one's opinions online. It raises awareness about the dangers of censorship and encourages people to stand up for their right to speak freely.

B

It raises awareness about internet censorship

This day brings attention to the issue of internet censorship, which is a growing concern in many countries around the world. It encourages discussion and action to safeguard access to information and promote transparency in government censorship policies.

C

It supports freedom of the press

By promoting an open internet, World Day Against Cyber Censorship also supports independent journalism and investigative reporting. These are crucial elements for holding those in positions of power accountable, and without them, our society would lack an important check against corruption and abuse of power.

Holiday Dates

Year Date Day
2023 Sunday
2024 Tuesday
2025 Wednesday
2026 Thursday
2027 Friday