Policy Brief: Internet Shutdowns - Internet Society

Policy Brief: Internet Shutdowns

Government-mandated Internet shutdowns have become the “new normal” in many countries, primarily driven by political and national security concerns.

The United Nations considers cutting users off from Internet access, regardless of the justification provided, to be disproportionate and thus a violation of Article 19, Paragraph 3, of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Internet shutdowns are a harmful and disproportionate response to complex issues.

As noted by La Rue (2011), the UN calls upon all States to ensure that Internet access is maintained at all times, including during times of political unrest.

This policy brief urges policymakers to adopt policies that eliminate shutdowns as a tool and to analyze and weigh the effects of restricting access.

Author's summary: Policymakers should adopt policies to eliminate Internet shutdowns.

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Internet Society Internet Society — 2025-11-03

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