A/HRC/7/14 Page 10 II. ISSUES A. Implementing the right of access to information Censorship, suspension, closing or banning of media outlets 21. The Special Rapporteur remains concerned at the widespread resort to censorship, direct or indirect, which remains in many regions of the world. Apart from direct censorship, many Governments have resorted to indirect ways to censor or shut down media outlets that express independent voices. The Special Rapporteur has received a number of communications concerning cases where Governments use overly subjective administrative regulations, particularly licensing and taxation, in order to close or suspend media outlets. Ultimately, the main impact of these policies is to create an uncertain environment for media professionals, thus fostering self-censorship and shunning any meaningful criticism of public policies and authorities. 22. Throughout 2007, the Special Rapporteur followed closely and with concern a substantial number of cases in which Governments suspended the operation of media outlets, particularly news channels that broadcast internationally, during large-scale public protests, electoral processes, states of emergency or public disorder. In most cases, these practices were designed to insulate the countries in question from the rest of the world, making invisible the human rights violations committed by State institutions, thus avoiding international criticism and pressure. 23. The new media, especially the Internet, have not remained free of censorship and direct repression. In past years, the Special Rapporteur has noted a growing trend of censorship and the banning of websites and Internet contributors, particularly bloggers. Due to the low cost, decentralized nature and great reach of the Internet, it has become an important outlet for the circulation of independent opinions about State authorities and policies. Many Governments therefore have developed an interest in controlling, monitoring and censoring the digital media, in particular the Internet, including by punishing hundreds of so-called cyber-dissidents around the world. In some cases, Internet use in private home