Session Description:
The democracies in the Asia Pacific region have been witnessing alarming cases of digital censoring, be it through content blocking or internet shutdowns, often implemented by governments to curb dissent and freedom of expression. As per a report published by SurfShark, a shocking 89% of the region’s population has experienced internet restrictions since 2015. With several South Asian countries, including India, Iran, and Bangladesh scheduled for general elections in 2024, there is a greater risk of restrictions as the elections draw near.
In Pakistan as the election phase started, the social media platforms became inaccessible as the main opposition party held a virtual rally in December and a fundraising event in January. The trend continued in February 2024, when mobile internet services were completely shut down across Pakistan on election day. In Bangladesh, a critical news website was blocked a day before the election in January 2024. Similarly, India has seen a harrowing case of content and website blocking when it comes to stifling freedom of expression, especially during the February 2024 Farmers Protest and the imposition of internet shutdown for over 200 days in the State of Manipur.
Technological advances such as content blocking and internet shutdowns which were developed to protect the citizens from falling into a pit of misinformation in this digital age during a democratic process are now being used as a tool to undermine freedom of expression and right to access information. In doing so, such tactics disproportionately impact vulnerable populations who rely on the internet for accessing vital resources and information. This creates a ripple effect, harming social and economic well-being, and ultimately hindering a society’s ability to function effectively and deepens the digital divide along class, caste, and gender lines.
Content Blocking during an electoral process stifles political discourse by limiting online spaces for debate and discussion, potentially silencing critical voices and hindering a healthy exchange of ideas. This lack of transparency also casts doubt on the legitimacy of the electoral process, ultimately weakening democratic participation and public trust in the government. When such an action is compounded by internet shutdowns, we see a devastating impact on the overall economy of the affected areas.
The session will explore the threat and impact of content blocking and internet shutdowns along the lines of curtailing freedom of speech in a democratic process with highlights on the general Elections up ahead in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Iran, where authorities have frequently used the kill switch. It will also explore themes of digital inclusion and how digital censoring furthers the digital divide. By fostering a multi-stakeholder dialogue on this critical issue, this panel session will aim to raise awareness, identify solutions, and work towards a future where internet access remains uninterrupted and fundamental rights are upheld across the Asia Pacific.
