Khashif Talks Unlock Knowledge & Explore with Khashif Talks!
In a recent report released by VPN and cybersecurity provider Surfshark, Pakistan has been identified as one of the worst countries in terms of internet restrictions during the first half of 2023. The report highlights that Pakistan accounted for three out of 42 new global internet restrictions recorded by the Internet Shutdown Tracker during this period. These restrictions were implemented following the arrest of the country’s former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, on May 9, 2023.
The report sheds light on the severity of the internet restrictions imposed in Pakistan during this time, particularly on the use of social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Citizens experienced limitations and disruptions in accessing these platforms, which are crucial channels for communication and information exchange in the modern digital age.
Moreover, the report points out that there were multiple instances of temporary cellular network interruptions throughout the country for several days following Imran Khan’s arrest. These disruptions further limited people’s ability to communicate and access information.
Read More: 10 Effective Tips to Boost Internet Speed on Windows
The Surfshark report ranks Pakistan third after Iran and India in terms of countries with the most internet restrictions enforced in the first half of 2023. The majority of these restrictions were observed in Asia, making it the central region for internet shutdown incidents during this period.
Iran experienced the highest number of internet disruptions, with 14 incidents recorded during the Zahedan Friday protests. These protests were sparked by the Zahedan massacre, highlighting how internet shutdowns can be used as a tool to control and suppress public dissent and civil unrest.
India followed closely behind Iran with nine confirmed instances of internet restrictions, most of which occurred during various protest events in the country. Interestingly, the report also refers to two additional instances of internet shutdowns in ‘Jammu and Kashmir,’ allegedly ordered by the Indian government. If included in India’s count, the total number of internet shutdowns in the country escalates to 11 within the six-month timeframe of the report.
The report underscores that over two-thirds of the new internet disruptions (30 out of 42) were incited by public dissent over social and political matters. This finding highlights the critical role of the internet as the primary platform for exchanging vital information and expressing opinions during episodes of civil disturbance.
Internet shutdowns and restrictions not only violate citizens’ fundamental rights to freedom of expression and access to information but also have significant economic implications. These measures can hinder businesses, disrupt essential services, and create barriers to education and communication.
While there may be legitimate concerns about misinformation and security threats, blanket internet shutdowns are often disproportionate responses that have wide-ranging negative effects on society. Governments need to find a balance between safeguarding national security and respecting citizens’ rights and freedoms.
The Surfshark report serves as a wake-up call for governments and policymakers to prioritize the protection of digital rights and maintain an open and accessible internet, even during times of political unrest. Striking the right balance between security measures and citizens’ rights is essential to promote a free and democratic society in the digital era.
