Individuals frequently have little control over how their personal data are used.
Empowerment for individuals navigating the information ecosystem demands that people have control over their online experience, can make informed decisions as to the media that they choose to consume and can express themselves freely. Public empowerment requires consistent access to diverse and reliable sources of information. Digital spaces have in many ways served as catalysts for inclusive participation in public life, connecting people across geographical boundaries with shared aspirations for progress. When harnessed for good, these spaces can help empower individuals and give agency to those who are often excluded and marginalized . At the same. time, digital technologies can hinder genuine empowerment. Individuals frequently have little control over how their personal data are used , or over algorithmic content personalized by large technologycompanies , and face obstacles from information providers to understanding and accessing the criteria and mechanisms us...