The Internet is one of the world’s most widely used outlets for free expression.  Perhaps this is why Google announced their new government censorship tool, launched Tuesday.

The new “Government requests tool” releases the number of requests from government agencies it receives for the first time.  Data is broken down between data requests and content removal requests by country.  You may be surprised to see the United States ranks in the top five for both types of requests.  The amount of requests complied to, broken down by type (ie web search), is also included. Content removal requests cover the search engine, YouTube, blogging software, social networking sites, and more.

Data is currently included from July-December 2009 and will be updated in six month increments.  At this time, the data lacks source details and has much room for improvement. The tool, however, stands as example of transparency for the technology and communications industries.

According to the Google blog, government censorship is growing rapidly.  David Drummond, Google’s chief legal officer, said more than 40 governments censor information today, up from four in 2002.  Through the release of this tool, it is clear Google believes greater transparency will lead to less censorship.

Digital content regarding the denial of the Holocaust (ie many of Germany’s content removal requests) is what I believe to be legitimate and as most members of society would believe, just.  Many governmental content removal requests follow such examples or are instances where content can inflict harm on its population.  The ethical debate, however, comes into play when releasing private user data.   Where is the line to be drawn for criminal investigations?  With both types of governmental requests, the question remains: Which country makes the most invasive demands and what is the effect on its citizens?

Although Google’s goal is to remain as transparent as legally possible when removing content or releasing individual user information, some are beginning to ask where the final line will be drawn.  Is there ever a point of sharing too much information?  Such developments simply add fuel to the fire of the scope of the first amendment and privacy laws in the digital world.

Despite recent privacy negligence allegations with Google Buzz and Google Street Views, it is important to note Google has joined the Global Network Initiative to help defend Internet freedom.  While amid fire from numerous government officials about the way Google handles individual’s privacy, it can be inferred Google is taking their final stance… with the users.