Governments across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) repeatedly and unjustifiably use Internet shutdowns during school exams as a cautionary measure to stop students from cheating.
This not only impacts students but also millions of other people, resulting in public outrage as essential social, political, economic, and cultural activities and online services come to a complete standstill.
That’s why Access Now, SMEX, and the Internet Society are closely monitoring the Internet during exams in 2023.
Countries we are watching:
- Algeria
- Jordan
- Iraq
- Mauritania
- Syria
Over the next three months, we will feature stories from the people and countries impacted and share resources to help you join the effort to demand authorities guarantee open access to the Internet at all times. MENA governments must hear our call: #NoExamShutdown!
Updates
#NoExamShutdown Webinar
Join us to discuss the impact of government-ordered Internet shutdowns planned for upcoming exams in Algeria, Jordan, Iraq, Mauritania, and Syria and how you can demand authorities guarantee open access to the Internet at all times.
When: Wednesday, 10 May from 13:00 UTC
Panelists:
- Afef Abrougui, Lead Researcher @ SMEX
- Asia Abdulkareem, Project Coordinator @ INSM
- Fatima Zohra Feriel Menouar, National Coordinator of Salamat Algeria and Digital Safety Trainer @ Digital Arabic Network
- Hanna Kreitem, Senior Advisor, Internet Technology and Development – MENA @ Internet Society
Watch a recording of the webinar in Arabic and English below.