UN Special Rapporteur addresses state and corporate power in report on freedom of expression in new frontiers

An advance edited version of a report by UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan warns that the growing influence of governments, digital platforms and AI companies is reshaping freedom of opinion and expression.

The report, Freedom of expression in new frontiers, is dated 11 June 2026 and was prepared for the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council. It examines the interaction between state power, large technology companies and geopolitical interests.

Khan argues that states are increasingly using national security laws, surveillance technologies, internet restrictions and digital identification systems in ways that may limit lawful expression. She also raises concerns about the concentration of control over information in a small number of digital platforms and AI companies.

The report examines the effects of these trends on women, children and journalists. It highlights online violence against women, risks linked to children’s use of social media and AI systems, and the financial and professional pressures facing independent media.

Khan calls for independent regulation, stronger data protection, greater corporate transparency and regulatory frameworks based on international human rights law. She also stresses that restrictions on expression must be lawful, necessary and proportionate