Chad’s Internet Blackout: A Third Day of Disruption for Businesses and Communication

Internet shutdowns have become a troubling phenomenon across several African nations, often invoked during elections, protests, and periods of civil unrest under the pretext of preventing the spread of misinformation or maintaining public order. However, these measures fundamentally violate the human right to free speech, effectively silencing dissenting voices and restricting democratic engagement.

Countries like Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Ethiopia have implemented Internet shutdowns during electoral processes, raising serious concerns about their impact on democracy and civil liberties. For instance, during Uganda's 2021 elections, the government abruptly cut off Internet connectivity, leaving millions without access to information and communication. Such actions not only erode democratic principles but also disrupt economic activities, disproportionately affecting small businesses and essential services that rely on online connectivity.

The African Union (AU) and various civil society organizations have called for increased transparency and accountability regarding the use of Internet shutdowns, emphasizing that access to the Internet is a fundamental right that should not be subjected to arbitrary restrictions. Organizations like the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) and Paradigm Initiative play pivotal roles in advocating for more transparent and inclusive Internet governance policies. They focus on protecting digital rights, promoting freedom of expression, and holding governments accountable for instances of internet censorship and data privacy violations.

International collaborations also significantly influence Internet governance across the continent. The AU's Declaration on Internet Governance encourages member states to ensure affordable, reliable Internet access while safeguarding online human rights. Initiatives like the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) create valuable platforms for discussing best practices and strategies for effective Internet regulation.

Instances of Internet shutdowns are not limited to specific countries but can be observed in various contexts across the continent. For example, in Kenya, anti-government protests triggered similar responses from authorities. During the 2019 protests in Sudan against the long-standing regime of Omar al-Bashir, the government imposed a comprehensive Internet blackout that lasted weeks. This shutdown not only hindered communication among citizens but also obstructed journalists from covering the events, allowing the government to control the narrative and stifle dissent.

In the current digital landscape, social media has emerged as a critical avenue for individuals to express their views, share stories, and mobilize for change. When governments implement shutdowns, they effectively silence public discourse and limit citizens’ ability to advocate for their rights. Human rights organizations have condemned these shutdowns, asserting that they constitute clear violations of the right to free expression, a principle enshrined in international human rights law.

Advocacy groups like Access Now and the Electronic Frontier Foundation have been vocal in their calls for a more connected world, urging governments to respect digital rights and recognize Internet access as a public good. They stress that Internet shutdowns have far-reaching implications that extend beyond national borders, affecting international relations and collaboration efforts.

As awareness of the consequences of Internet shutdowns grows among citizens, there is an increasing demand for accountability. Activists and civil society organizations are pushing for the enactment of laws that safeguard access to the Internet, ensuring that any restrictions imposed are both fair and necessary. In some cases, courts have ruled against government-enforced shutdowns, yet the struggle for free speech in the digital age remains ongoing. As governments grapple with dissent and political instability, their tactics will come under scrutiny.

The challenge ahead is not solely to end Internet shutdowns but to foster an environment where free expression can thrive. Internet shutdowns pose a direct threat to free speech and democratic principles. As Africa confronts this trend, it is imperative to advocate for policies that protect Internet access as a fundamental human right, ensuring that every voice can be amplified and heard. Promoting a culture of open dialogue and accessibility is crucial for the continent's democratic future and the protection of civil liberties in the digital era.