Record Internet Shutdowns in Africa: A Growing Concern for Civil Rights
In 2024, Africa experienced a record number of internet shutdowns, reaching 21 across 15 countries, as more authorities restricted citizen access. A report by Access Now highlighted the involvement of both governments and non-state actors in these actions, with shutdowns often linked to conflict and elections. Despite international resolutions aimed at reversing this trend, shutdowns continue to pose significant challenges to the rights of individuals.
In 2024, Africa witnessed a record surge in internet shutdowns, with governments increasingly restricting access to citizens. A report by Access Now and the KeepItOn coalition noted 21 shutdowns across 15 African nations, surpassing prior records set in 2020 and 2021. Nations like Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritius joined the ranks of frequent violators, including Burundi, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, and Kenya, with the report also identifying militia and non-state actors as contributors to these actions.
Felicia Anthonio, the KeepItOn campaign manager, emphasized that telecommunication and internet service providers are complicit in violating rights by complying with government orders. Most shutdowns stemmed from conflicts, protests, and political instability, with many occurring during elections. This trend extended globally, with 296 shutdowns across 54 countries in 2024, a rise from 283 across 39 nations the year before.
Access Now characterized the situation as alarming, stating that it is the worst since record-keeping began in 2016. The report revealed a total of 1,754 shutdowns since then, each representing communities isolated during turmoil. By the close of 2024, at least five African countries faced internet disruptions lasting over a year. Notably, Meta’s operations remained restricted in Uganda, and internet services were halted on the Equatorial Guinean island of Annobon following the protests last August.
In response to the escalating crisis, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights adopted a significant resolution in March 2024 to combat this trend. Nevertheless, Anthonio expressed concern over continued shutdowns, particularly during elections, despite the resolution’s adoption. She expressed moderate optimism about the resolution’s effectiveness, noting some countries like Mauritius and South Sudan began reversing shutdown orders as of January 2025.
The 2024 reports on internet shutdowns in Africa reveal a concerning trend of increasing government restrictions, particularly during political unrest. Although international efforts have emerged to combat this trend, such as the ACHPR resolution, challenges remain. The persistence of shutdowns indicates a pressing need for advocacy and accountability to ensure rights to internet access are upheld across the continent.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
