LNAT Practice Test Essay – Should internet access be considered a human right? Discuss the implications.

In the LawMint LNAT Practice Test Series for 2025 and 2026, there are 30 full length tests, with 360 passages – 1260 MCQs and 90 essay prompts or essay questions.

The essay below is a sample that can be written for the prompt:

Should internet access be considered a human right? Discuss the implications.

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Introduction

As the internet has become an increasingly integral part of modern life, the question of whether access to it should be considered a human right has gained significant attention. Proponents argue that internet access is essential for participating in society, promoting education, and ensuring economic opportunities. However, critics contend that declaring internet access as a human right may divert attention from more pressing issues and create undue burdens on governments and businesses. This essay will discuss the implications of considering internet access as a human right and evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks of this approach.

The Case for Internet Access as a Human Right

One of the primary reasons for considering internet access as a human right is its role in facilitating communication, education, and access to information. The internet has become a critical tool for learning, connecting with others, and accessing essential services such as healthcare, banking, and government programs. By declaring internet access a human right, governments would be obligated to ensure that all citizens have access to this vital resource, which could help bridge the digital divide and promote greater social and economic equity.

Moreover, the internet is an essential tool for exercising other human rights, such as freedom of expression, access to information, and the right to participate in cultural, civic, and political life. By declaring internet access a human right, governments would be acknowledging the importance of this resource in enabling individuals to exercise their fundamental rights and freedoms.

Furthermore, considering internet access as a human right could have positive implications for economic development and innovation. By ensuring that all citizens have access to the internet, countries can create a more inclusive and dynamic economy, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship and providing new opportunities for social and economic mobility.

The Case Against Internet Access as a Human Right

Despite the potential benefits of declaring internet access a human right, there are also several potential drawbacks to consider. One concern is that focusing on internet access as a human right may divert attention and resources away from more pressing issues, such as access to clean water, healthcare, and education. Some argue that prioritizing internet access over these more fundamental needs could lead to an imbalanced approach to development and human rights.

Another potential drawback is the burden that declaring internet access a human right could place on governments and businesses. Ensuring universal access to the internet could require significant investments in infrastructure and services, which may be challenging for resource-constrained governments and economies. Additionally, declaring internet access a human right may create legal and regulatory burdens for businesses, potentially stifling innovation and competition in the internet service sector.

Balancing Access and Priorities

In considering whether internet access should be declared a human right, it is important to balance the potential benefits and drawbacks of this approach. While access to the internet is undeniably important for modern life, there are also legitimate concerns about the implications of prioritizing this issue over more fundamental needs.

One potential solution is to pursue a more nuanced approach that recognizes the importance of internet access without necessarily declaring it a human right. This could involve promoting policies and programs that aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure greater access to the internet, while also focusing on other development priorities and human rights issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of whether internet access should be considered a human right involves a complex balance of potential benefits and drawbacks. While access to the internet is undoubtedly essential for modern life and the exercise of other human rights, it is important to carefully consider the implications of declaring it a human right.

By pursuing a more nuanced approach that recognizes the importance of internet access while also addressing other development priorities and human rights concerns, governments and societies can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.