Shutdown Academy
60 mins
Introduction to Internet Shutdowns
- Abstract:
- This course offers an introduction to internet shutdowns, including an overview of the shutdown problem and examples of different ways governments shut down the internet and other communications channels. It will examine how internet shutdowns exacerbate human rights abuses and interfere with democratic processes. The course looks into who is fighting back and multi-stakeholder advocacy strategies used by the global #KeepItOn coalition to end internet shutdowns.
- About this course:
- This course is designed to equip advocates, activists, campaigners, lawyers, human rights defenders, individuals, and journalists with a general understanding of what an internet shutdown is, where they happen, and under what circumstances.
- What do I learn:
- This introductory course is intended to provide human rights defenders, journalists, activists, and individuals with an overview of what internet shutdowns are, why and when they happen, and which organizations are working on the internet shutdowns issue. It will also discuss the challenges of mitigating internet shutdowns and censorship and how internet disruptions can impact democracy.
- What do I need to know:
- This course is useful for anyone with an interest in understanding the basics of internet shutdowns, why and how they happen, and how to push back against them. Access Now is an international human rights organization dedicated to defending and extending the digital rights of users at risk around the world. By combining direct technical support, comprehensive policy engagement, global advocacy, grassroots grantmaking, legal interventions, and convenings such as RightsCon, we fight for human rights in the digital age.
Trainers
Felicia Anthonio
Felicia Anthonio works with Access Now as #KeepItOn Campaign Manager – leading a global campaign that unites over 280 organizations around the world working to fight against internet shutdowns. Before joining Access Now, she was a Programme Associate at the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) where she coordinated the African Freedom of Expression Exchange.
- 1.1 Introduction to the course1.2 The facts on internet shutdowns1.3 How internet shutdowns harm human rights?1.4 Quiz - The basics of internet shutdowns1.5 History of internet shutdowns - From Egypt to Myanmar
- 2.1 Defining internet shutdowns (#KeepItOn definition)2.2 Technical means to shutdown the internet2.3 Quiz - Am I experiencing an internet shutdown
- 3.1 Why internet shutdowns are a barrier to elections3.2 Civil unrest, protests and shutdowns3.3 What activists need to know3.4 Case study - Susan Mwape, Common Cause Zambia Case study3.5 Quiz - activity3.6 Cuba Case Study - Norges Rodríguez, Yucabyte
- 4.1 Tips for planning for shutdowns during elections and civil unrest4.2 About the #KeepItOn Coalition4.3 Internet shutdown monitoring tools4.4 Liaising with national and International institutions over shutdowns4.5 Why the private sector matters
- 5.1 Wrap up video5.2 Course survey
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Suggested reading
Blog
Evaluating the Efficacy of State-Imposed Telecom Shutdowns in Northwest Nigeria
This article casts doubt on the shutdowns' effectiveness in curbing banditry, exposing alternative explanations for any temporary decrease in attacks. It questions the legitimacy of justifying these shutdowns as effective counter-terrorism measures, advocating for alternative approaches that prioritize community engagement, human rights, and development initiatives to address the root causes of insecurity and foster lasting peace in Northwestern Nigeria and Nigeria at large.
Blog
Impact of the Twitter Ban in Nigeria
This post is a research study on the impact of the Twitter ban in Nigeria on Human Rights Monitoring, Advocacy and Creativity. Read more.
Blog
Four Free Toolkits to Fight Internet Shutdowns
Let’s tell you a little bit more about each toolkit!
Blog
The Impact of Internet Disruptions on Farmers in Nigeria
In Nigeria’s Northwestern Sokoto State, farm workers grapple with geopolitical challenges, shifting climate realities, and economic turbulence. However, they now face a new, growing threat: a troubling rise in internet disruptions, which threatens their ability to work in an increasingly digitally connected world. Read more.
Blog
Central Asian Network of Internet Activists
Central Asian Network of Internet Activists (CANIA) is a network of dedicated researchers and activists with a passion for digital rights, security, and development. Originating from Central Asia, they understand the challenges of internet accessibility and the pivotal role of the internet in economic advancement. CANIA’s efforts centre around increasing awareness of pressing issues like data privacy, internet accessibility, digital literacy... read more.
Blog
Investing in the Fight Against Digital Authoritarianism in Senegal
On February 3, Senegal’s President Macky Sall announced a delay of the much-anticipated presidential elections, originally planned for February 25, in what some are calling a “constitutional coup.” Protests erupted, and the government imposed a mobile internet shutdown. Read more...