Journalism in the Age of Spyware: Defending Freedom of the Press and Countering Threats Posed by Surveillance Technologies in Latin America

Thursday, Sept. 7 // 9:30–11:00 am (ET)

A growing threat haunts journalists and political activists worldwide: spyware, a new form of electronic surveillance that presents considerable challenges to freedom of the press. Various actors, including private companies, have developed sophisticated malware to infiltrate personal computers and smartphones, avoiding detection. Governments and other actors worldwide, especially in Latin America, are deploying these tools to spy on rivals and critics, including politicians, activists, and journalists who are largely defenseless against this surveillance. The illegal surveillance of journalists exposes them to blackmail, puts their sources at risk, and discourages investigative reporting, including investigations into public corruption.

Join us for a public dialogue on the urgent threat of private and state-sponsored surveillance and defending the freedom of the press.

Still To Come This Week

LAUNCH | The Lancet Commission on Peaceful Societies Through Health Equity and Gender Equality

Thursday, Sept. 7 // 9–11:00 am (ET)

Please join the Wilson Center’s Maternal Health Initiative and Canada Institute, in partnership with The Lancet, for the launch of the Lancet Commission on peaceful societies through health equity and gender equality's report. Hear from report authors, partners, and subject matter experts on how advances towards health equity and gender equality can make our societies more peaceful.

Book Talk | The Legacy of 9/11: Views from North America

Friday, Sept. 8 // 11:00 am–12:00 pm (ET)

Over two decades on from the September 11th terrorist attacks, The Legacy of 9/11 explores the political, economic, security and defence, and trade and border implications of the event for the United States and its North American allies. From a reconsideration of internationalism, a rise in populism, and a shift in migration patterns to the interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq, The Legacy of 9/11 uncovers how successive North American governments reacted in surprising ways to the world-altering attack.

Join us for a virtual discussion with four of the book's authors on the enduring impact of 9/11 on US policy towards and relations with Canada and Mexico, moderated by Canada Institute Director Christopher Sands.