From Introduction: The Arab Spring and the echo it created throughout the world in 2011 raised a debate on freedom of expression and the role that new Information Communication Technology (ICT) can play in order to enhance democratization. Through social media, grass-root journalism, civil society and engaged individuals, current views for change were disseminated and people mobilized to act against authoritarian ruling. In some countries the mode of method raised voices and was powerful, in other constraints was made to hinder communication through open information orders, and what had started as grass-root movements were dismantled.

This presentation covers Sida’s ambition to cover current world trends with an attempt to strategically update its knowledge and understanding regarding freedom of expression and the role that new communication technology has had on the enhancement of democracy. The flow of information has become instantaneous, inexpensive, it transcends boundaries and empowers people and enhances globalisation. The overarching aim of the assessment is to analyze the external environments in order for Sida to enhance its own internal capabilities.