Elections 2023: NSC aims for “no surveillance state” and improved security.

Leading up to the elections, Techzine examines the digital-related positions of all prominent political parties. In the second part of this series, we provide an overview of the election program of NSC (New Social Coalition). Pieter Omtzigt, the lead candidate of NSC, presented his party’s election program last week. Many key points of the new political movement have already been debated extensively in the media and public discourse.

NSC’s election program reflects their commitment to addressing digital issues and harnessing technology for the benefit of society. The party emphasizes the importance of digital inclusion, aiming to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to technology and online services for all citizens. They advocate for increased investments in digital infrastructure, such as broadband connectivity, to enhance digital accessibility throughout the country.

Furthermore, NSC recognizes the significance of cybersecurity in today’s interconnected world. They propose comprehensive measures to strengthen the country’s cyber defenses, including increased funding for cybersecurity research and development, collaboration with international partners, and enhanced legislation to combat cyber threats effectively. NSC aims to protect individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure from cyberattacks while ensuring the privacy and data security of its citizens.

In line with their commitment to digital innovation, NSC supports the promotion of emerging technologies and fostering a favorable environment for startups and entrepreneurship. They propose initiatives to stimulate research and development in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum computing. Additionally, NSC advocates for streamlined regulations and reduced bureaucracy to encourage digital entrepreneurship, enabling businesses to thrive and contribute to economic growth.

Data protection and privacy are also key focal points in NSC’s election program. The party stresses the need for robust data protection laws, giving individuals control over their personal data and ensuring transparency from tech companies regarding data collection and usage. They aim to strike a balance between facilitating data-driven innovation and safeguarding the privacy rights of citizens, proposing stricter regulations on data sharing and greater accountability for data breaches.

NSC also places importance on digital education and skills development. They envision an education system that equips students with the necessary digital literacy and competencies to thrive in the digital era. The party proposes investments in training programs for teachers and promoting partnerships between educational institutions and the technology industry to enhance digital skills development at all levels.

In conclusion, NSC’s election program highlights their commitment to addressing digital challenges and leveraging technology for societal progress. Their proposals encompass various aspects, including digital inclusion, cybersecurity, innovation, data protection, and education. As the elections draw near, it remains to be seen how these digital-related standpoints will resonate with voters and contribute to shaping the country’s future digital landscape.

Isabella Walker

Isabella Walker