In 2024, Africa experienced record internet shutdowns with 21 incidents spanning 15 countries, indicating a troubling increase in government censorship in response to conflicts and instability. Despite local advocacy following a landmark resolution by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the trend of shutdowns continues, signaling an urgent need for protection of digital freedoms.
In 2024, Africa witnessed a record surge in internet shutdowns, with 21 incidents reported across 15 countries, as detailed in a report by Access Now and the KeepItOn coalition. This figure surpasses the previous peak of 19 shutdowns in both 2020 and 2021. Notable countries involved include Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritius, in addition to repeat offenders such as Burundi, Ethiopia, and Kenya, among others.
The report indicates that the majority of these shutdowns were driven by responses to conflicts, protests, and political instability, with notable shutdowns during election periods. Citizens faced significant repercussions as telecommunications and internet service providers complied with governmental directives, infringing upon human rights, as highlighted by Felicia Anthonio, the KeepItOn campaign manager at Access Now.
Globally, 2024 saw 296 internet shutdowns across 54 countries, outpacing the previous year’s total of 283 shutdowns in 39 countries. Access Now described this alarmingly high tally as indicative of a world where access to the internet is frequently weaponized and precarious for individuals.
The report underscores the human toll of these shutdowns, noting that behind each of the 1,754 shutdowns since 2016 lies a narrative of affected communities during times of political instability and unrest. By late 2024, several African countries had experienced shutdowns lasting over a year, including regions where social platforms like Meta were still restricted.
In response to this troubling trend, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights adopted a resolution in March 2024 aimed at reversing the escalation of shutdowns. However, as noted by Anthonio, the regression in internet freedom continued through 2024, despite the resolution’s adoption. She pointed out that if authorities in places like Mauritius and South Sudan had begun reversing shutdown orders, it could signal a shift in attitude, albeit cautiously observed.
The report by Access Now highlights a concerning increase in internet shutdowns in Africa, reflecting a troubling global trend. As governments weaponize internet access in response to crises, civil society organizations continue to advocate for human rights protections. The recent African Commission resolution represents a critical step, yet the ongoing resurgence of shutdowns suggests that substantial efforts are still needed to safeguard digital rights and freedoms across the continent.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
