Internet shutdowns across Africa reached a record high in 2024, with 26 documented incidents, primarily during elections or periods of civil unrest. Governments increasingly weaponized internet access, disrupting communication and suppressing dissent. These shutdowns, often targeting mobile data and social media platforms, caused significant economic damage and hampered human rights monitoring. Ethiopia and Senegal were among the countries experiencing the longest and most disruptive outages. The trend raises concerns about democratic backsliding and the erosion of digital rights across the continent.
Thailand has disrupted utilities to a Myanmar border town notorious for housing online scam operations. The targeted area, Shwe Kokko, is reportedly a hub for Chinese-run criminal enterprises involved in various illicit activities, including online gambling, fraud, and human trafficking. By cutting off electricity and internet access, Thai authorities aim to hinder these operations and pressure Myanmar to address the issue. This action follows reports of thousands of people being trafficked to the area and forced to work in these scams.
Hacker News commenters are skeptical of the stated efficacy of Thailand cutting power and internet to Myanmar border towns to combat scam operations. Several suggest that the gangs are likely mobile and adaptable, easily relocating or using alternative power and internet sources like generators and satellite connections. Some highlight the collateral damage inflicted on innocent civilians and legitimate businesses in the affected areas. Others discuss the complexity of the situation, mentioning the involvement of corrupt officials and the difficulty of definitively attributing the outages to Thailand. The overall sentiment leans towards the action being a performative, ineffective measure rather than a genuine solution.
Summary of Comments ( 55 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43325628
HN commenters discuss the increasing use of internet shutdowns in Africa, particularly during elections and protests. Some point out that this tactic isn't unique to Africa, with similar actions seen in India and Myanmar. Others highlight the economic damage these shutdowns inflict, impacting businesses and individuals relying on digital connectivity. The discussion also touches upon the chilling effect on free speech and access to information, with concerns raised about governments controlling narratives. Several commenters suggest that decentralized technologies like mesh networks and satellite internet could offer potential solutions to bypass these shutdowns, although practical limitations are acknowledged. The role of Western tech companies in facilitating these shutdowns is also questioned, with some advocating for stronger stances against government censorship.
The Hacker News comments section for the Guardian article "Internet shutdowns at record high in Africa as access 'weaponised'" contains several compelling points of discussion.
Several commenters discuss the political motivations behind these shutdowns. One commenter points out the correlation between shutdowns and elections or periods of civil unrest, highlighting how governments use them to suppress dissent and control the flow of information. This is further emphasized by another comment referencing the increasing sophistication of these shutdowns, moving beyond simply blocking access to targeting specific platforms or services used for organizing protests. Another commenter cynically notes that this type of control isn't unique to Africa and is becoming a global trend, with governments worldwide finding ways to restrict internet access under the guise of national security.
The economic impact of internet shutdowns is also a significant topic of conversation. One comment highlights the devastating effect on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on the internet for operations and reaching customers. This economic damage, the commenter argues, often outweighs any perceived benefits of the shutdown. Another commenter expands on this by mentioning the chilling effect these shutdowns have on investment, hindering economic growth and development in affected regions.
The technical aspects of implementing these shutdowns are also touched upon. One commenter discusses the role of telecommunications companies in carrying out government orders, raising ethical questions about their complicity. Another commenter questions the effectiveness of these shutdowns in the long run, suggesting that determined individuals will always find ways to circumvent restrictions, whether through VPNs, mesh networks, or other technologies. This leads to a discussion about the "arms race" between governments trying to control information and citizens seeking to access it.
Finally, the conversation also includes a discussion about the broader implications for internet freedom and democracy. One commenter expresses concern about the normalization of internet shutdowns, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for other countries to follow. Another commenter emphasizes the crucial role of the internet in holding power accountable and facilitating democratic processes, making these shutdowns a significant threat to human rights.
Overall, the comments paint a picture of growing concern over the increasing frequency and sophistication of internet shutdowns in Africa and the broader implications for global internet freedom. The discussion highlights the complex interplay of political, economic, and technical factors driving these shutdowns and underscores the urgent need for solutions to protect access to information.