Impact on Global Internet Shutdown in the Digital Era

Internet Shutdown

An alarming global rise in internet shutdowns and censorship has been observed over the past decade. According to The Hindu, 296 internet shutdowns happened globally in 2024, where India ranked second among the top 10 countries with the greatest number of shutdowns. The main reasons cited for the shutdowns include national security concerns, prevention of unrest, and misinformation control. Members of the Global Network Initiative and UN experts have criticized the rising normalization of network shutdowns, curbing of human rights, stifling of democratic engagement, and overall loss of economic productivity.

In 2024, 85 curbs were imposed in Myanmar, and 11 of these were a result of other countries and groups, China imposed two [shutdowns on areas in Myanmar] and Thailand four, while the exiled National Unity Government (NUG), Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) imposed one shutdown each in areas they controlled. The remaining two shutdowns were imposed by unknown parties.

Internet shutdowns are viewed as violations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly concerning freedom of expression and access to information. Internet shutdowns also affect marginalized communities more, hindering access to essential services, education, and communication, and exacerbating existing inequalities. Countries in Africa, including Ethiopia and Sudan, are witnessing a sharp rise in politically driven shutdowns, indicating a global normalization of connectivity curbs.       

In 2023, India implemented 30 internet shutdowns across various regions, totalling 7,821 hours and incurring financial losses exceeding $500 million. People in 16 States and Union Territories experienced a shutdown, with State Government officials in Manipur (21), Haryana (12), and Jammu & Kashmir (12) topping the list of offenders in India. Shutdowns during protests, communal tensions, and exams have become institutionalized in India, with limited legal oversight. 

The rise of shutdown circumvention tools like VPNs and encrypted messaging reflects public resistance and evolving digital activism under repressive policies. According to a study by Security.org, some of the countries with the highest VPN usage rate per capita are Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates; all countries with low internet freedom.