United Nations calls for end to excessive electronic spying

The UN calls for an end to excessive electronic surveillance expressing concern at the harm it could have on human rights.

The 193-member General Assembly adopted a resolution intended to help ensure people have the same rights to privacy on the internet as they have offline.

The move comes after former U.S. National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden revealed details of a global spying programme by the NSA, sparking international outrage.

General Assembly resolutions are non-binding but they can carry significant moral and political weight.