Myanmar surpassed India as the world's top enforcer of internet shutdowns in 2024, marking the worst year on record for digital blackouts, a new report finds.
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| A new report reveals that Myanmar, India, and Pakistan were responsible for over 64% of global internet shutdowns in 2024, with Myanmar now leading the list. Image: ChicHue |
Yangon, Myanmar — February 24, 2025:
Myanmar has overtaken India as the country with the highest number of internet shutdowns worldwide, marking a significant shift in global digital censorship. According to the latest report by Access Now and the #KeepItOn coalition, Myanmar imposed 85 shutdowns in 2024, a sharp increase driven by the military junta’s efforts to control information during ongoing civil conflict, reads a News Laundry post.
The report, titled "Emboldened Offenders, Endangered Communities: Internet Shutdowns in 2024," found that India, which had led global internet shutdowns for six consecutive years, recorded 84 shutdowns last year. Pakistan followed with 21, its highest ever, while Russia imposed 19, including several targeting Ukraine. Together, Myanmar, India, and Pakistan accounted for over 64% of all recorded shutdowns in 2024, making it the worst year on record for digital blackouts.
In Myanmar, the military regime was identified as the primary perpetrator, using shutdowns as a tool to suppress dissent and limit communication in conflict zones. The report linked at least 31 of these shutdowns to grave human rights abuses, including 17 that coincided with airstrikes on civilians.
Despite India’s drop from the top spot, its continued use of shutdowns remains a significant concern. As the world’s largest democracy, India has been criticized for repeatedly cutting internet access in response to protests, unrest, and security incidents, particularly in regions such as Kashmir and Punjab.
Pakistan’s 21 shutdowns in 2024 reflected a growing reliance on digital blackouts to stifle political opposition and restrict access to information. The country recorded its highest-ever number of shutdowns, raising concerns about the shrinking space for digital freedoms.
The report also highlighted new additions to the list of internet shutdown enforcers. Malaysia was flagged for blocking access to Grindr, while Thailand disconnected internet services for people in Myanmar and Laos.
As global internet restrictions intensify, digital rights groups warn that authoritarian regimes and democratic governments alike are increasingly using shutdowns as a means of control. The report calls for stronger international action to curb the misuse of internet blackouts and protect fundamental rights to information and communication.