Iraq Blocks IMDb Over Claims of ‘Immoral Content’

Iraq has blocked IMDb over claims of ‘immoral content,’ following government monitoring. The ban reflects ongoing internet censorship in the country, which has seen significant declines in digital freedoms. With 66 internet outages in 2023 and high internet costs, Iraq’s administration tightens control, citing the protection of social and cultural values.

On November 26, Iraq’s Ministry of Communications officially blocked access to IMDb, the renowned movie and television database, citing concerns regarding what they labeled as “immoral content.” This action was taken after persistent surveillance by Al-Salam General Company, the governmental entity tasked with monitoring and regulating online platforms. The ministry asserted that its decision was not arbitrary, refuting claims to the contrary, and emphasized that the ban was intended to uphold Iraqi cultural values and social fabric amid content perceived as pornographic and unethical.

IMDb, which is a popular site boasting over 200 million monthly visitors, is owned by Amazon and has served as a crucial resource for entertainment data since its founding in 1990. However, the absence of an Arabic language service limits its accessibility in Iraq, which has seen significant declines in internet freedom, alongside increased censorship and website restrictions over the past year.

Reports indicate that over 66 internet outages were recorded in Iraq in 2023, the most of any country worldwide, primarily occurring during academic examinations to deter cheating. These outages have had substantial economic repercussions, costing the Iraqi economy approximately $1.4 million daily. The current administration, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has intensified its grip on internet governance and censorship, further limiting freedoms previously enjoyed by the populace.

Despite a reported internet penetration rate of 78.7%, major challenges remain, especially regarding infrastructure and high internet costs, which disproportionately affect rural areas. The ban on IMDb is viewed as a continuation of Iraq’s trend toward stringent online regulation, reflecting similarities with the policies observed in neighboring countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The decision by Iraq to block IMDb highlights ongoing tensions between digital freedom and government regulations in the region. IMDb is a critical resource for entertainment information, but its accessibility is hindered by a lack of Arabic language support. Over the past year, a notable decline in internet freedom has been documented in Iraq, featuring increased instances of censorship, shutdowns due to cheating prevention during examinations, and harsh penalties for online content. The government is purportedly attempting to preserve cultural integrity amidst concerns over digital content. The recent actions of the Iraqi government align with trends seen in other nations within the region where access to online information is heavily regulated, underscoring a broader movement towards digital authoritarianism.

In summary, the Iraqi government’s decision to block IMDb is indicative of a wider trend towards increased censorship within the country, fueled by concerns regarding moral content. This incident reflects the challenges Iraq faces in balancing internet freedom against cultural preservation. With the ongoing infrastructure issues and high costs of internet access, the road ahead for digital rights in Iraq appears fraught with complexity, mirroring the experiences of other nations under similar restrictions.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com