In 2024, global internet shutdowns reached an all-time high, with governments using digital blockades to suppress protests, dissent and tighten political control. The approach, published by the #KeepItOn organization, is now being followed by a new report that reveals that 54 countries documented 296 shutdowns, up 35% from the previous year’s total. Myanmar, India and Pakistan are among the worst offenders, with Myanmar reporting 85 shutdowns, India imposing 84 and Pakistan experiencing a record 21 shutdowns.
74 of the shutdowns were related to protests, indicating a growing trend in the use of digital restrictions to stifle civil liberties. The world’s largest democracy, however, has faced 855 shutdowns since 2016. Last year, internet disruptions cost an estimated $1.62 billion, its worst year so far, and have led to shutdowns. Reports warn that such restrictions are hindering participation in democracy and access to essential information.
Blocking platforms like X and TikTok is a growing erosion of freedom in both democracies and authoritarian regimes. Citing the need to rediscover discourse and civil society, advocacy groups are urging governments to consider the move.
