Bits of Freedom is a Dutch digital rights organisation based in Amsterdam. Founded in 1999, it works to protect online rights linked to communication freedom and privacy, and it frames that work as part of a broader effort to keep technology under democratic control. The organisation says a strong democracy governed by the rule of law is a precondition for living in freedom and equality, and that the power of technology should be held by people pursuing that goal.
Its work is national in focus but has a wider European relevance. Bits of Freedom combines research, campaigning, lobbying, movement-building and legal action. In practice, that means producing analysis on digital harms, mobilising civil society around technology policy, pressing lawmakers for stronger protections, and challenging governments or companies when rights are at risk. The organisation also works on public awareness through campaigns, events, newsletters and a podcast.
Among its recurring themes are surveillance, platform power, biometric surveillance, facial recognition, encryption, artificial intelligence, and the collection and use of personal data. It also campaigns against what it sees as harmful Big Tech practices, including profiling-based advertising and manipulative design. The group has a long-running public profile in the Netherlands, including the Dutch Big Brother Awards, which it uses to spotlight major breaches of digital rights.
Bits of Freedom operates as a foundation with staff, a board and an advisory council. It is financially supported by private donors, companies and funds, while explicitly stating that it does not accept money from governments or Big Tech in order to protect its independence. Its headquarters are in Amsterdam, where its core team is based.