Record High Internet Shutdowns in Africa: A Growing Concern for Digital Rights

In 2024, Africa recorded a historic number of internet shutdowns, with 21 incidents in 15 countries, surpassing previous records. The restrictions are largely attributed to government actions in response to political unrest and protests, with culpability also falling on telecom companies. A resolution from the African Commission aimed to mitigate this issue, yet challenges persist, indicating a need for continued advocacy.

In 2024, Africa experienced an unprecedented number of internet shutdowns, with authorities implementing 21 shutdowns across 15 countries, surpassing the prior record. This trend indicates a growing pattern of governments attempting to control access to information during times of conflict, unrest, and elections. The report was published by Access Now and the KeepItOn coalition, which advocates for digital rights.

Governments such as those in Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritius joined recurring offenders like Burundi, Ethiopia, and Kenya in imposing shutdowns. Non-state actors, including militias, also partook in these actions, highlighting a widespread issue. Felicia Anthonio, the KeepItOn campaign manager, asserted that telecommunications companies complicit in obeying governmental orders are infringing on human rights, as outlined by the UN principles.

The analysis revealed a correlation between the shutdowns and political instability, often occurring amidst protests or electoral processes. The global phenomenon saw a rise in internet access restrictions, with a total of 296 shutdowns reported in 54 countries, marking an increase from 283 in 39 nations last year. Access Now indicated that the figures represent the most severe conditions since monitoring commenced in 2016, reflecting an alarming trend of weaponized internet access.

The report underscores the significant impact of these shutdowns, noting that the approximately 1,754 incidents since 2016 encapsulate the stories of communities separated from vital information and one another during crises. By the end of 2024, at least five prolonged shutdowns in Africa had lasted over a year, severely disrupting communication.

In response to this troubling trend, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights adopted a resolution in March 2024 aimed at addressing and reversing the increase in shutdowns. However, Anthonio remarked on the continuing challenge, indicating that election-related shutdowns persisted despite the resolution, which serves as an essential advocacy tool for civil society.

In summary, Africa is witnessing a surge in internet shutdowns, reflecting a concerning trend of governments restricting access to information. The 2024 data indicates that both state and non-state actors are involved in this phenomenon, often in response to political instability. While the African Commission has made strides with new resolutions, the ongoing misuse of internet access shows that more advocacy and action are needed to protect digital rights.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com