Election periods increase the risk of Internet shutdowns. During elections in some countries, officials look at controlling access to information, usually citing the need to prevent the spread of social unrest, fight against the dissemination of false news and speech that incites hatred and revolt, and preserve national security.
Between now and the end of 2024, 106 elections are expected to occur in 67 countries. We plan to track these on Pulse via the following table, which also shows the risk of a shutdown for each country and the negative cost to each country’s GDP every day the Internet is shut down, as per the NetLoss calculator.
Use the search bar to find your country, and click on the column headers to sort columns.
The Internet Society believes Internet shutdowns harm societies, economies, and the global Internet infrastructure. We urge governments and decision-makers everywhere to support policies that keep the Internet on and strong, to build strong economies, and to give people an opportunity for a prosperous future. Read the Internet Society’s position on Internet Shutdowns.
Stay Informed, Get Involved, Share Your Experience
Below is a list of resources that can help you advocate to keep the Internet on:
- Subscribe to the Pulse monthly newsletter
- Learn more on shutdowns during elections through the Pulse Blog, including examples of how to proactively advocate for an open Internet
- Use the NetLoss calculator to estimate the economic impact of shutdowns
- Follow the #KeepItOn coalition
- Keep monitoring and actively engaging with decision-makers to #KeepItOn.
- Email us with your experiences of Internet shutdowns at [email protected]
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash