The Facts
- A total of 296 internet shutdowns were documented across 54 countries in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 283 shutdowns in 39 countries during 2023.
- Myanmar topped the global list with 85 shutdowns, followed by India with 84 shutdowns, while Pakistan recorded its highest-ever total of 21 blackouts, and Russia imposed 19 shutdowns including seven in Ukraine.
- Conflict remained the primary trigger for internet shutdowns with 103 documented cases across 11 countries, followed by protests, job placement exams, and elections.
Sources Split
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The Spin
Narrative A
Internet shutdowns are essential tools for maintaining public safety and preventing the spread of misinformation, particularly during times of unrest or security threats. The implementation of such measures helps authorities control dangerous situations and protect citizens from the harmful effects of false information, especially with the rising threat of AI-generated deepfakes.
Narrative B
Internet shutdowns during elections severely undermine democracy by preventing citizens from accessing information and holding authorities accountable. In 2024, when 4B people vote across over 60 countries, these disruptions pose a critical threat. Recent shutdowns in Senegal and Pakistan demonstrate how governments restrict online freedoms precisely when democratic participation is most vital.
Metaculus Prediction
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