Ronald Deibert, founder of the Citizen Lab, has worked for over two decades to uncover digital threats and abuses of power. Based at the University of Toronto, the lab is unique for its independence from government and corporate interests, focusing on public interest investigations into cyberthreats. Deibert warns that democracy, particularly in the U.S., is under threat, noting a rise in authoritarian practices. Despite risks to himself and his team, the lab's work continues to influence global human rights and cybersecurity discussions, including laying groundwork for sanctions against spyware vendors. Deibert emphasizes the importance of their mission, especially as similar research faces challenges in the U.S.
