Chile is the first in the world to adopt a network neutrality law

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    Chile became the first country in the world to adopt a law guaranteeing Internet users compliance with the principles of network neutrality, as well as free access to global network resources.
    The ballot, approved by the Council of the Chamber of Deputies with 100 votes in favor with one abstention, introduces new provisions into the Law on Communications, formulating and consolidating five main provisions.

    1. Internet providers are prohibited from restricting access and discriminating in any way users of the network in relation to any type of content, web application or service, with the exception of measures to protect the identity of users, counteract viruses and ensure network security.
    2. Providers are required to provide parental controls.
    3. Providers must amend the contracts, make them more “transparent” and provide users with written additions and clarifications so that subscribers can easily and clearly define the list of services provided by the operator.
    4. Providers are required to guarantee the confidentiality of users, protect them from viruses and ensure security while on the network.
    5. Providers must guarantee free access to all types of content, services and applications in the global network and, when providing services, not recognize the content downloaded by users, regardless of whose property it is. And also prevent restriction of freedom of users in the use of content or services, except for specific user requests.

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    The document underwent several improvements in the first reading, after which the senators made several amendments on their part, which were approved by the government. During the debate, the deputies agreed on the need to ensure free access to the Internet for users, but noted that despite the innovative nature of this type of regulation in Chile, legislation in this area lags far behind the speed of technological progress.

    The Minister of Transport and Communications, Felipe Morande, promised government support for this initiative, but said that politicians should move further towards the country's Internetization, and promised to direct efforts to expand coverage of broadband access to the network in order to achieve 100% coverage over 8 years.
    He also promised to tighten control in this area. So, under the new rules issued to implement the new law, sanctions are imposed against providers who will try to introduce any restrictions on access to the global network.

    The lower house has already sent a draft law to the head of the republic to amend or adopt it as a law of the Republic of Chile.

    A source

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