GNI members believe that freedom of expression and privacy are critical to fostering stability, inclusiveness, and security. As such, GNI believes that government surveillance activities must comply with principles of rule of law and democratic governance, as well as human rights principles such as legality, necessity and proportionality.

Our framework of principles and guidelines provide companies with specific guidance on how to address government demands for access to data in a manner consistent with internationally recognized laws and standards. Our shared learning facilitates greater understanding of the specific challenges that surveillance activities can present. And our policy approach advocates for expanded transparency, oversight, and accountability of laws, regulations, and actions related communications surveillance.