, a stark reality persists: internet freedom remains a distant dream for many. As the digital age thrives, millions of people still grapple with
due to the inefficient infrastructure, government controls, and chilling restrictions.
As of May 2022, three in four individuals in the world lived in countries where people were
on political, social, or religious issues. Another way in which some authorities have been controlling the online space in recent years is by deploying pro-government commentators to manipulate online discussions. Furthermore, between June 2021 and May 2022, 64 percent of online users worldwide lived in countries where individuals were attacked or killed for online activities.
Overall, the internet was free only for 18 percent of the global online population. For another 37 percent, it was reported to be restricted, while in the case of 34 percent, it was semi-free.
Where is the internet most unfree?
As of 2022, China was the country, with the
lowest level of internet freedom, while Myanmar, and Iran followed.
In the Americas, Cuba had the lowest score of internet freedom, 20 out of 100 points. The United States ranked third among listed American countries, with an index score of 76 points. Among the countries in the
Asia-Pacific region, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia had the highest index score, over 76 out of 100.
In Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia reportedly had the least free internet, with 27 index points each, in 2022.
In the meantime, Iceland had the
highest score indicating freedom on the internet, 95 out of 100 index points. Estonia and Costa Rica followed, with scores of 93 and 88 index points, respectively.
Internet shutdowns as a remedy
In 2022, 19 cases of
nationwide internet shutdowns were imposed by governments during protests, and a further four instances were because of political turmoil. Another popular way governments limited communications during demonstrations and other significant events was by restricting access to social media or voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services. In September 2022, the number of
new monthly internet shutdowns reached its highest.
In the first half of 2023, four
cases of internet connection disruptions were reported in Asia and three in Africa.
Unveiling the longest internet bans
In 2022, Burkina Faso garnered global attention for imposing the
most extensive internet restriction of the year – an astounding 8,500-hour blackout, equating to roughly 354 days. Meanwhile, Russia made waves with its strict regulations in 2022, subjecting popular social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to restrictions exceeding 7,000 hours.
Fast forward to January 2023, Oman's 2009 ban on VoIP services still holds the record for the
world's longest-running online service restriction. While the ban was lifted in 2020, Oman continues to deny access to WhatsApp calling, leaving its digital landscape in a state of flux.
Despite vocalizing their support for the UN HRC resolution on human rights and free speech on the internet in 2021, certain nations have taken steps to curb online freedoms since pledging their commitment. India has emerged as the leader in
imposing new internet restrictions post-signing, with Sudan and Pakistan closely following suit.
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