Internet Surveillance
Here is an interesting development, a proposal to enlist ISPs in government surveillance programs (Torrent Freak - Congressman wants ISPs to be Copyright Police):

With warrentless wiretapping sweeping the US, a leading congressman is proposing similar measures for the Internet. This isn't an attempt at "fighting terror" but instead a new measure to reduce so-called "piracy" by making the ISPs the police force.

This is a proposal in the United States, but it's a reminder of the capability that all governments have to control the internet.