Conflicts trigger globe's highest rate of internet shutdowns in 2024: NGO
Briefly

A report by Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition revealed a record year for internet shutdowns, with 296 incidents across 54 countries in 2024. Conflict remains the leading cause, with Myanmar having the most shutdowns (85), primarily enforced by the military government. The report details that shutdowns have increasingly crossed borders, particularly affecting regions like Ukraine and Gaza. Despite a decrease in MENA region shutdowns, the number of affected countries rose, showcasing a troubling trend in the use of digital violence as a means of suppressing opposition.
In 2024, there were 296 documented internet shutdowns across 54 countries, underscoring the escalation of digital violence fueled by global conflicts.
Myanmar led the global tally with 85 shutdowns, imposed primarily by its military government against a resisting population, reflecting a severe suppression of freedom.
The report highlights that the Middle East and North Africa witnessed 41 shutdowns across 17 countries, indicating an increase in affected nations despite fewer total shutdowns.
Authorities used various methods like jamming and infrastructure destruction to enforce shutdowns, often endangering civilian safety during armed conflicts.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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