Urgent Call to Restore Social Media Access in South Sudan

The #KeepItOn coalition advocates for an end to social media shutdowns in South Sudan due to their infringement on human rights. The government initiated a 90-day shutdown to curb misinformation during protests, but it has raised concerns about the violation of freedom of expression. The coalition urges restoration of access and adherence to international obligations by ISPs and the South Sudanese government.

The KeepItOn coalition, composed of over 334 human rights organizations, calls for an immediate cessation of social media shutdowns in South Sudan. This action contravenes both national and international human rights standards. The National Communication Authority ordered a 90-day shutdown starting January 22, 2025, citing the need to prevent the sharing of distressing content following violent protests in South Sudan.

Authorities assert that shutting down social media platforms is necessary due to protests against atrocities committed against South Sudanese nationals. The violence has escalated in areas including Juba, resulting in curfews and significant restrictions to communication. However, restricting access to social media impedes freedom of expression and blocks access to critical health and safety information.

Historical data shows that internet shutdowns worsen the spread of misinformation while facilitating human rights abuses. In 2021, South Sudan similarly restricted access to platforms like Facebook. Major internet service providers, such as MTN and Zain, confirmed compliance with the government’s directive restricting social media.

The ongoing shutdown is unconstitutional according to Article 24 of South Sudan’s constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression. International agreements, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, affirm these rights. Authorities are cautioned against enacting disproportionate measures when alternatives exist for moderating violent content.

Moreover, telecommunications companies are urged to adhere to the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights. Compliance with the government’s directives poses the risk of human rights violations against South Sudan’s population. It is essential that ISPs investigate the legality of the government orders and resist complying with overly broad definitions related to social media.

The coalition demands that the South Sudanese government restore internet access immediately and ensure non-recurrence of such shutdowns. ISPs must advocate for rights by resisting unjust directives, while social media companies should enhance their moderation techniques in consultation with civil society. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a safe digital environment that supports human rights and free expression.

The #KeepItOn coalition, formed by numerous human rights organizations worldwide, responds to the alarming trend of internet shutdowns, particularly in South Sudan. Internet services were ordered to be suspended due to ongoing unrest, sparking a debate about the implications for human rights and the necessity of maintaining digital access during crises. This situation highlights the critical intersection of technology, governance, and civil liberties in the region. Historically, South Sudan has restricted social media access to control information during turbulent times, raising concerns about accountability and the spread of information. Such actions conflict with established human rights laws, aiming to safeguard freedom of expression and access to information, critical during emergencies. The situation has drawn international attention, particularly as various entities emphasize the detrimental effects of internet blackouts on communities and the need for companies to comply with human rights obligations. The overall climate in South Sudan exemplifies the broader challenges countries face regarding internet governance and human rights in the digital age.

The ongoing social media shutdown in South Sudan represents a serious infringement on human rights, as emphasized by the #KeepItOn coalition. Immediate action is required from both the government and telecommunications companies to restore access and uphold international human rights standards. The collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring free expression and access to essential digital services are critical in safeguarding the rights of citizens amidst crises.

Original Source: www.accessnow.org