Conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Myanmar contribute to surge in ‘digital violence’.
Across the globe, there were 296 documented internet shutdowns in 54 countries in 2024, marking a higher toll than the 283 shutdowns recorded in 39 countries the previous year, according to a study by Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition, released on Monday.
Conflict continued to be the top reason behind internet shutdowns for the second year in a row. The strategies employed by those responsible included device jamming, cable severing, infrastructure destruction, and interference with service providers.
Myanmar topped the list with the most shutdowns at 85, mainly instigated by the military government to suppress opposition to their regime four years post-coup.
A significant spike was noted in cross-border shutdowns, involving actions by Russia in Ukraine, Israel in Gaza, and Thailand and China in Myanmar.
India, which held the lead in 2023, moved to second place with 84 shutdowns, whereas Pakistan experienced its highest-ever total of 21 shutdowns.
Israeli ‘Digital Violence’ Impacts MENA Region
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region experienced 41 internet shutdowns across 17 countries in 2024, a decrease from 77 in 2023, yet these disruptions spread across a broader number of countries, from 15 to 17.
Within the MENA region, authorities in 10 countries implemented 18 platform blocks as a means to control information. Additionally, armed conflicts led to 12 internet shutdowns, posing dangers to civilian safety.
Israel stood out in the region, executing six shutdowns during its conflict in Gaza, deliberately severing connectivity and damaging communication infrastructure, despite international condemnation.
In Sudan, both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) weaponized shutdowns during the ongoing conflict, disrupting essential services for millions.
Cyberattacks by the Anonymous Sudan hacker group also resulted in shutdowns in Bahrain, Chad, and Israel. Additionally, Mauritania implemented the first election-related shutdown in the region since 2021.
The MENA region continues to lead in exam-related shutdowns, with 10 instances across five countries, including Algeria, Iraq, and Syria. These shutdowns were often justified as a preventive measure against cheating, despite opposition from civil society.
