Introduction

Through its Technological New Deal Horizon 2034, Senegal aims to position itself as a key player in Africa’s digital transformation. This ambitious strategy seeks to make the country a regional technological hub, modernize public services, and boost its digital economy. However, despite its promises, a crucial aspect is overlooked, mainly protecting and promoting citizens’ digital rights. This blog post explores the main pillars of the Technological New Deal Horizon and addresses the gaps in digital rights, drawing on relevant precedents.

The Main Pillars of the Technological New Deal

The Technological New Deal is structured around four strategic pillars, each aiming to transform Senegal into an inclusive and competitive digital society:

1. Digital Sovereignty: This pillar aims to ensure Senegal’s technological independence by developing local digital infrastructures (data centers, sovereign cloud) and strengthening cybersecurity. The objective is to reduce dependence on foreign technologies and protect citizens’ and institutions’ sensitive data. 
2. Digitization of Public Services: The Senegalese government intends to modernize the administration by dematerializing public services, simplifying administrative procedures, and improving user experience. This includes creating one-stop shops like ‘’Espaces Senegal Services’’  and promoting the interoperability of information systems.
    
3. Development of the Digital Economy: This pillar aims to stimulate technological innovation and entrepreneurship by promoting the creation of start-ups, developing digital skills, and attracting foreign investments. The goal is to make Senegal an African leader in key digital sectors, such as artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and smart cities. 
4. African Leadership in Digital Technology: Senegal aspires to become a sub-regional technological hub by attracting foreign investments, developing national champions, and strengthening its position in African digital integration.

The Absence of Provisions Related to Digital Rights

Despite its ambitions, the Technological New Deal does not explicitly mention citizens’ digital rights. This omission is concerning, as it opens the door to potential violations, as evidenced by specific precedents in Senegal and the region.

• Freedom of Expression Online

Precedent: In 2021, during political tensions related to the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, the Senegalese government ordered internet shutdowns and restrictions on social networks. These measures were widely criticized as an infringement on freedom of expression and access to information.
Issue: Without a clear legal framework to protect freedom of expression online, such restrictions could recur, limiting citizens’ ability to express themselves freely and participate in public debate.

1. Protection of Personal Data
   Precedent: Senegal has had Law No. 2008-12 of January 25, 2008, on protecting personal data since 2008. However, discussions are underway to revise it to adapt to recent technological developments.
   Issue: Without updated regulation, mobile operators and digital platforms can collect and exploit personal data without users’ informed consent, thus violating their right to privacy.
2. Equitable Access to the Internet
   Precedent: The digital divide remains a significant challenge in Senegal, particularly in rural areas with limited or costly internet access. During the COVID-19 pandemic, students in rural areas were disadvantaged due to a lack of internet access to follow online courses.
   Issue: Without concrete measures to ensure universal and affordable internet access, digital inequalities risk widening, excluding part of the population from opportunities offered by digital technology.
3. Digital Security
   Precedent: Senegal has experienced increased cyberattacks, including phishing cases, account hacking, and online fraud. Citizens and businesses are often ill-prepared to face these threats.
   Issue: Without robust cybersecurity policies, citizens remain vulnerable to cyber threats, compromising their digital security and trust in online services.

Why Digital Rights Must Be at the Heart of the Technological New Deal

Digital rights are not optional but necessary to ensure everyone exists with human dignity and equality. Digital transformation must benefit all citizens, protecting their fundamental freedoms. The following recommendations are key in  integrating digital rights into the Technological New Deal:

• Updating the Law on the Protection of Personal Data: Adapt existing legislation to technological developments to ensure the adequate protection of citizens’ data, as recommended in the Londa Report Senegal 2023. 
• Guaranteeing Freedom of Expression Online: The government should commit to not restricting access to the Internet or social networks, except in exceptional and proportionate circumstances, following international standards.
• Promoting Universal Access to the Internet: Investments must be made to reduce the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, and ensure that all citizens can access affordable and quality digital services.
• Strengthening Cybersecurity: Awareness campaigns and training should be implemented to help citizens and businesses protect themselves against cyber threats.
• Encouraging Citizen Participation: Actively involving citizens in the development of digital policies is essential to ensuring that their rights and concerns are considered.

Conclusion

Senegal’s Technological New Deal offers a significant opportunity for digital transformation. However, for this transformation to be inclusive and sustainable, it is essential to integrate digital rights as a central pillar of the strategy. By protecting privacy, freedom of expression, equitable access to the internet, and digital security, Senegal can build a digital ecosystem beneficial to all its citizens while respecting their fundamental freedoms.